Saturday, October 29, 2016

This barista at Caribou knows her java drinks, and she's got a bold sense of style to boot.

Young readers have an instinct to select just the right grade-level book from Little Free Library in front of their home. Grandma took the foto, won't mind me including it here.

Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine a kind-of Stonehenge. You can see it, can't you? The circle of posts staked deep in this sandy beach are not in England, but right here along Lake Minnetonka. Our Stonehenge? Close enough.

Single-speed cruiser catches its velo breath up next to the old RR depot in Wayzata. Rainy afternoon doesn't make for good pedaling, but provides me the opportunity to compose an OK shot of the day.

Big Boy Lands Big Fish

Be it Tarpon or perhaps Tarpoon, a fish like this is worth a croon!

Leeward side of the restroom bldg. at a rest stop somewhere along I-40 in Oklahoma.

After a pit stop in OK, I checked out what looks likes a circuit breaker box behind the latrine building at the rest stop. Maybe satisfied customers showed their appreciation by pasting stickers on nearly every square inch of metal.

Story of the Sikhs told with respect and awe in exhibit at Phoenix Museum of Art.

In addition to the Kurds the Sikhs are regarded as the bravest, toughest, best fighting forces ever to go into battle.

Wickenburg Collector and his Classically Beautiful Nash Metropolitan.

I was on a bike ride today when I met a Viet Vet, about my age, car collector — “just because I’ve always loved cars. Got my first car at age 14.” Here he is pictured with his Nash Metropolitan (recently restored and painted. He's also got a garage full of classics including a Pontiac, MG-B, Nash Metropolitan, Hillman Minx, ’47 Jeep, Mercury, and a lone Crosley.

No matter where you're from .... in plain English, Spanish and Arabic.

Apartment building on Grand Avenue in St Paul is a welcoming neighborhood, for sure.

Santa signed me up for sock-of-the-month club. Merry Christmas, tootsies!

Actually Jason turned out to be Secret Santa, and the socks are one of a kind!

Darby, Lisa and Katye.

The Cousins get ready for Christmas Eve dinner. Poppina and I were pleased to be included in the guest list.

What will those airport retailer geniuses think of next?

Check this one out. The kiosk (sort of drone-ish, no attendant required) is a feature along the Bradley Airport concourse. For two bucks you can plop your eye glasses into a steam-clean machine and get them spritzed. I almost gave it a shot, but pulled the hanky from by hip pocket, and cleaned my specs the old fashioned way. Glasses came out pretty good, and I saved $2.00.

"Augie" the Norwegian Buhund Doggie.

I was visiting my family not long ago, and had the chance to meet "Augie," the snuggly, new family pup. Augie is a Norwegian "buhund," AKC-recognized breed known for its cuddliness and cuteness. Boy, did I have fun bonding with this 3-month old!

I'm still getting some traffic on the blog. Come see me often!

Thank you, Poppy Bloggers, for visiting the site 181, 835 times.

Egg in a (gluten free) basket.

Udi's GF wheat bread from Harvest Moon co-op makes healthy nest for farm-raised eggs. Pretty boring, but about the only thing I know how to cook for myself.

Dosey-Doe Trees along Lake Minnetonka.

Seems that fotogs like to take pics of things reflecting upon themselves. Almost like geting two shots for the price of one. Trees here seem to be dancing, taking full advantage of still waters and arriving dusk to create this image.

Town of Wayzata Turns the Lights on Early.

Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.

- Desmond Tutu -

Daily Special: Original Pancake House, Plymouth, MN

You also get a short stack of silver dollar 'cakes when you order scrambled + patties. The whole fam damily has broken bred this summer at O.P.H.

Couple of sports sporting DPS ski caps.

Johnny Beanzz and Henry LeBear rock some white hot headgear from DPS - Deep Powder Skiing. Beanzz and Bear are uncles of my nephews Stephan and Philip, and the hats are sort of like a family coat (cap) of arms. Good looking, huh?

St. Paul Celebrates Snoopy.

A tribute to the late Charles Schultz lies at foot of "Snoopy the Voyageur " outside corporate HQ in Medina.

Some kinda' velo art.

This tatt lady knows her wheel truing and brake adjusting every bit as well as she understands fashion and body art.

Death Knell Sounded for Ash Tress in St. Paul, MN

Invasion of Emerald Ash Borers threatens to wipe out glorious ash trees along the elegant streets of St. Paul. Looks as if the city has already begun to designate trees for removal. Sad news. Global warming to blame?

Closed for Season. Drinks Available Inside.

Soda machine "out for the season," and that's a particular bummer when the temps inch up, humidity rolls in from the southwest, and familiar sprintime parched throats are back with a vengenance.

Fountain Pen Nibs Disgorge a Rainbow of Colored Ink.

It's almost more fun to clean out old ink, with ooh's and ahh's over the psychedelic mess that results, than to fill out forms and pay the bills.

Gluten Free Caramel, Chocolate and some other ingredient Donut from "The Loft" on Washington.

Reading the Classics with Dad.

A very attentive son, engrossed in what his father is reading aloud, reminds a parent he's doing an A+ job.

Minnesota Fire Wood For Sale.

Approved, sanctioned, inspected and certified by the Dep't. Natural Resources. I've never heard of such a thing, have you?

Sorta Sphinx-y, I think-y.

My good buddy the filmmaker poses with massive, NV-style Egyptian as point of reference. Good looking guy (s), huh?

Relieves your Stress, Guaranteed.

One of my young friends swears by the restorative powers of this Yogi "Stress Relief" tea. I havent tried it yet, still prefering the calming qualities of Celestial Seasonings Sleepy Time.

BPA-free Water Bottle one of the best gifts I received at Christmas.

My grandson picked out a special water bottle just for his Poppy. BPA-free, dishwasher-compatible, the top and bottom unscrew so I can keep the bottle clean between meaningful quaffing of H2O.

Peruvian Nichos.

Crary has collected these Christmas crafts over the years. She points out that the full complement of Holy Family is present, along with friends and neighbors from towns and cities across Peru, from Cuzco to Callao.

Lunch at St. Genevieve last week.

Tartine is always popular, though the lentil soup was my favorite. The fries? Yummy.

Workhorse of Ho Chi Minh City.

Our intreped South Asia correspondent, James T, sent this shot of a very busy, much loved, hard-working velo in the capital city of Vietnam.

I was stopped in my tracks .......

I was stopped in my tracks (well, hopped off the bike when I pedaled by this display in Uptown Hamel). "Crosses" are made of PVC tubes, spray painted blue and pink, though unpainted white crosses are also visible. I wanted so badly to ask someone affiliated with the church: what happens to the children who are born poor, hungry, abused, despised, neglected. Is it better to bring a baby into the world, only to have him die of neglect, malnutrition, lack of love and care?

Little Free Library Must in Urban Setting.

Check the graffitti tags on and in this Little Free Library branch. It's on Lyndale Ave. at 27th St. in Minneapolis. Out here in the 'burbs we also have a few library boxes, but none of them yet has been defaced by magic marker.

Descansos: Spanish for Sacred Tribute to Loved Ones Perished on the Road.

See more Descansos in main post.

Smart 4 Two: Golf Cart or Interstate Warrior?

Saw this one at a rest stop on I-80 in New Mexico. Clearly th Calloway bag wouldn't fit inside the vehicle, so our intrepid traveler rigged the clubs on a bike rack on the back of the car. Or, was our man simply stopping for an iced cold beverage as he was making the turn after the front nine?

Still Plenty of Roadside Litter for Velosters to Clean Up.

I pick up trash 4-5 times per year, more than fill my saddle bags wih the gross-ness found roadside. Littering is dirty and selfish, they say.

Bed Bugs, be Gone !

Very well used twin mattress rests against dumpster in alley near 26th Street, awaiting pickup and disposal. You can almost see the outline of the guy tha used to sleep there.

No End Yet to Summer.

There's an explosion of color in our garden right now. The way things are growing, we'll be flower-ful until the first frost of fall.

Barista Avery at the Caribou in Long Lake.

They won't let you pedal your bike up to the service window at Caribou Long Lake, but arriving in an '09 KIA Sportage is A-OK. Barista Avery served a frosty cold iced latte just when it seemed the temp couldn't get any hotter. An appropriate tip was left to show customer appreciation.

Martin Sabo Bridge

This veloster legislator left behind a legacy unlikrly to be equaled.

Can you pay attention long enough to read this?

A recent study has found that the digital lifestyle has made it difficult for us to stay focused, with the human attention span shortening from 12 seconds to eight seconds ....Humans now have less of an attention span than a goldfish (nine seconds average)....

Yemen ran the coffee trade back in 17th Century.

Did you know that the Europeans didn't glom onto java until 1616? And then a Dutchman stealthed some seeds (illegal at the time to do that) and brought them back to Holland for planting.

L.A. - City of Power.

Very cool and deco manhole cover along Wilshire Blvd. in downtown LA.

Cyclists ride in the first running of the Tour de France, in 1903.

Cyclists ride in the first running of the Tour de France, in 1903.

Booble-Head Jeepsters.

I met up with a group of Jeep adventureres from the Phoenix area. They were getting ready to explore Vulture Peak, accessible only on foot, or by reliable 4-wheel drive. They called themslves the "Bobble Heads."

Tadpole Box Bike Made in Canada, lightweight, aerodynamic $2,600.00

“Wike Tadpole”. Sleek aerodynamic form and European styled body give the Tadpole a distinctive look that sets it apart from the square 70’s look of other bakfeits. The lightweight fibreglass box that wraps around the front wheel increases the cargo space without stretching the frame unduly, the shorter wheelbase is maintained with all the handling attributes of a normal bicycle. High end solution dyed fabrics from North American suppliers insure long life of the sewn componets. The front window rolls up to expose a bug screen that allows flow through ventilation from front to back. The entire canopy retracts with a single movement for ease of access. Padded seats, backs and sides are included as well as an intergal Ipad holder. The powder-coated steel frame with ample seat adjustment to accomodate riders from 5’3” to 6’3” and a Shimano Nexus 7 speed transmission with coaster brake complete the package of outstanding value.

Texting while Scootering in Varanasi.

Our friend Pierce took this on her smart phone in India. Sacred cow exiting his home while, in foreground, Hwro scooter driver checks e-mail to read about the Iowa caucus.

No Lifeguard on Duty Here.

Best Western pool in Wickenburg drained, undergoing renovation. No swimming just now.

Bedoian's Bistro Serves Sensational Espresso Drinks.

Mini Oranges from Pierce's Tree Perfect post Bike Ride Treat.

The savory oranges you see here are barely 2-inches in diameter. Yet they pack the sweet goodness of a citrus twice the size. Our friend Pierce picked these mini miracle off her backyard tree, knowing that post-velo performance would be enhanced by eating these fruits.

Lots and lots of Christmas Socks.

Santa Claus brought me all these (and more!) on December 25th.

Prosciutto at Lund's + Byerly's.

Jason and Terrell planned to whip up some Cordon Bleu chicken the other night. i volunteered to pick up some boneless, skinned, no-hormone chicken breasts and a few slices of "proshoot" to make the C. Bleu come to life. The deli counter clerk presents her handiwork, and was a willing subject of shopper's action photo.

MIA Docents bring 12th Century Art Alive in 2015.

There's more to absorb at MIA than anyone has time to dedicate to the process. Docents help focus attention on compelling subjects, inspire us to keep learning.

Jamaican Pimento Wood Kindling by th Bag.

It's hard to imagine they'd bring kindling all the way from the Blue Hills of Jamaica to start wood-stove fires in a Minnesota winter. But burlap bags don't lie. And the classy Jamaican national flag can't help but pique our interest, pull us in for a closer, warmer look.

Irish Blessing from friend Jim Butler.

Happy Is The Bride That Rain Falls On

(A traditional Irish Blessing)

Happy is the bride that rain falls onMay your mornings bring joy and your evenings bring peace.May your troubles grow few as your blessings increase.May the saddest day of your futureBe no worse than the happiest day of your past.May your hands be forever clasped in friendshipAnd your hearts joined forever in love.Your lives are very special,God has touched you in many ways.May his blessings rest upon youAnd fill all your coming days.We swear by peace and love to stand,Heart to heart and hand to hand.Hark, O Spirit, and hear us now, Confirming this our Sacred Vow.

James Lee Burke's hot new bestseller, getting good dsiplay space at Common Good Books.

Why do I have a foto of bestselling author Burke's new release? Because another writer friend of mine, Wayne Gardiner, loves Burke's work, knows him personally, and recently attended a book-signing event in Missoula, MT.

Vigo brand gluten products in Seawell seafood store.

We were shopping for halibut on Mason's Island, CT not long ago. Took home tons of freshly boated filets. While waiting for the clerk to ring us up I snapped a shot of the Vigo products for sale. Gorgeous packaging caught my eye. What do you think?

Decorah, IA has required bike registration and licensing since 1948.

Every person living within the city who owns a bicycle shall cause the ownership thereof to be registered at the office of the police department of the city. Upon such registration and payment of fifty cents, the police department will issue a license tag which shall thereafter be kept permanently attached to such bicycle.

TREK 720 for Sale.

I've owned a TREK touring bike, model 720, for more than 30 years. Bought it in NYC when I lived and worked there. It's followed me everywhere, now resides here in Minnesota. I'd like to sell it. If you're interested e-mail me at: hoytse@gmail.com I'll post a foto soon. Thank you.

Brother Joe at the helm of single engine Cessna, dsicovers Central Florida w/new set of eyes.

Tree in Fall Bloom.

A quarter-mile down Tamarack the trees are beginning to get ready for Fall. Thanks to magic of edit possibilities on iPhone and iPhoto, I could mess around a bit with color, contrast, and saturation and, voila: a new genus before your very eyes.

Hennepin County Public Library, downtown Mpls Branch.

If you don't find a book to your liking in this place, you can surely enjoy the light, reflections and magic of the architecture.

Uncle Mark's Vermiculture Compost.

All uneaten food products (except meat) go into Mark's vermiculture compost box. Give the worms and bugs time to consume and process these nutrients, and the box yields the richest compost a flower garden has ever seen.

Pina's Provisions Pantry.

Lots of fresh, local veggies being prepared last Saturday night for dinner w/friends the Weirs, and their family from Dublin. Yummy, healthful time was had by all.

The Plane, boss. The Plane!

Gary, Herve, Brooks and Jim at Urban Bean on Lake St.

Lisa, "Oak," and Auntie Poppina.

Lisa's new Chocolate Lab is one adorable pup. Who wouldn't want to pose alongside little "Oak"?

Barista of Quarter, Starbucks, Plymouth Station, MN

Right on, Brenna. Voted #1 by colleagues and co-workers. Keep up the good work.

Forecast Public Art Staff Party at Lowbrow Bistro on Nicollet and 43rd in Minneapolis.

Me and the very lovely, talented Staffers at Public Art Review Magazine and Forecast Public Art.

Damn the Torpedos, Full Speed Ahead!

Skipper Jim turned the Helm of our Runabout over to Old Poppy. I'm taking Lake Minnetonka by storm.

Kounter Kids, Panera Bistro, Plymouth, Minnesota.

Great guys like Derek and Colin make the best sandwiches in town. They're the rpide of Panera, and in addition to remembering your order, they remember your name! Great customer service is what keeps Panera going and growing. Thank you, men.

Pre Senior Prom, Staples HS, Wesport, CT.

Three stunning bff's, and Staples seniors, pose for pics pre prom. So lovely, so much fun, so quickly they grow up and GRADUATE.

Acoma Pueblo, New Mexico

Janet Rickey Homeward Bound. Foto by hubby Stephen.

Stephen and Janet have been in the saddle and on the road for more than a year, straight. From suburban Seattle to the East Coast, and now back again, they crossed the Colorado River this week from Arizona. Janet blogs daily, posts fun fotos taken w/iPad. It was a treat to meet the Pedaling Rickey's in Safeway Starbucks in Wickenburg as they recharged w/lattes, mochas and espressos.

Ben's Business Sign.

One of the classiest open-for-business signs in Wickenburg, you'll find it along Tegner, pop. City Hall.

Boy Meets Cactus.

Wickenburg Locals, Chill, Smile for the Camera.

We ran into Emily and David at the opening of Wickenburg Ranch, made the intros all 'round, persuaded E + D to pose for a shot w/Jason and Poppina.

Almost as Old as the Willys.

Linda took a pic of me leaning on the fender of her and Jeff's '49 CJ. "Careful of our Jeep," Linda implored. "It's almost as old as YOU are!"

Out Wickenburg Way.

New Lenox Furnace.

The good folks from Ditter Heating + Cooling were at the house all day on 12/12 installing a new furnace. My brother Joe wrote to ask when ignition would be, then lift-off. The house is cozy once more, with hardly a peep from the basement now.

ArtOrg, Northfield, MN

Old time windmill updated to draw water, power the electricity at the office.

Everglades, ca. 1975

Crary and Mark back in the day. Sublime.

Free Skis. Snow Not Included.

Rode by on Monday and saw the skis. Byt Tuesday they'd found a new hope. Pray for snow!

Old Knife = Sharp Edge.

Lisa showed us the funkiest of old table knives, wooden handle (dog-chewed), stained steel blade, surprising band holding blade secure inside handle. The knife has sharpest edge ever, and Lisa swears it's not been honed since new, now nearly 100 years ago.

Museum Goers Slake Thirst.

And we load up on chow at French Meadows after a stimulating day at the Museum of Russian Art.

The Shadow Knows. Huh?

I couldn't see anything on the camera's viewing screen since the sun was behind me. Though I came out OK with a fun shadow shot of some dude with longer legs than I remember.

Bruce B. at Elewa Farm.

Waiting for Godot?

J and I were up Target-way in Hamel, MN not long ago. We parked the bikes at Target to do a little shopping center shopping. Jason kept watch on the big red ball while I ducked inside to buy some Dunkin' Donuts coffee: a bag of regular and a bag of de-caf. $6.99/ for 12 ounces.

Smoking Kills.

So don't even THINK about lighting up the first fag.

Las Vegas Interbike Show.

My dear old buddy from ad sales days Peter Kirkpattrick -- "PK" -- met up last week at Interbike with Sue Knaup, exec director of Prescott, AZ-based "One Street" bicycle advocates, manufacturers, socially responsible friend of the planet. PK made sure to have a photo taken and sent to his buddy, old Poppy here. Thanks to Sue and Peter: hope the show was a big success.

Guilford, CT Java Joint was WWII Quonnsett Hut Once.

TAKU-TANKU

The tiny house you can pull with a bicycle: Superlight home made from plastic water tanks Made from two 3,000 litre water tanks Wooden frame connects them and has door and windows built in Has room for bed and a desk area to form a shelter in 9 sq m (96 sq ft) Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2728486/The-tiny-house-pull-bicycle-Superlight-home-plastic-water-tanks.html#ixzz3B59Bflgl Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook

Canoes for Rent.

Alongside Lake Calhoun you'll find aluminum rental canoes. This is what they look like if you run the regular 4-c image through the illustration software built into the Sony digi camera.

Bicycle Bingo.

Velo dad and daughter at work in Bicycle Bingo sheet, in hopes of winning a new Surly Long Haul Trucker.

Nice Ride Bike Share.

By all accounts the Twin Cities bike share program is a huge success. More riders, more trips, more adventure and discovery, self and otherwise.

All Amerian Bouquet.

Grandpa Hoyt, 1947.

We called him "Pada." Dr. Hoyt was a highly skilled, much revered G P in Chillicothe, OH. Patients of Loy Eugene Hoyt, MD, were loyal, well served and appreciative. Doc Pada could be a clothes horse when off duty, as the foto reveals. Check white flannel trousers, nicely tailored sports coat, and an enthusiastic smile. Pada left this world when I was just a boy.

Madison Bike Share.

Hadley checks out Madison bike program during U WI visit last week.

Friends of Filson!!

Passerby on Third St. yesterday snapped pic of Hadley, Poppina and me chillin' on tree-stump stools thoughtfully provided by management of new Filson retail store.

Dashboard, Giant Style.

Road ID, Cateye "Madrone," brass bell, all I need is a compass and a holder for my iPad.

Dinkytown Greenway.

Choate '61 Reunion.

Lively classmates of mine assembled in Wallingford in the middle of May. Good times were had by all. Reuning were: Hannock, Hull, Horne, Mohan, Koons, Wachtler, Ayres. Sorry I wasn't in the picture.

Me + Coxie.

We had it going …...

J + C: Spring, '14.

World's Handsomest Man.

M. Lydon, song-writer, poet, journalist, crooner and strummer is now the handsomest man in the world. After the late Steve McQueen relinquished the sobriquet M. Lydon was chosen unanimously to pick up the mantle. And so he did, and is, and that's that (or so he reports).

Road Closed Ahead.

My street was underwater this week. It rained like crazy, long enough, and the wind blew strong much of the time. I was out on the bike today to see the latest. Water has receeded but the sign remains, just in case the monsoons return.

Red Hook, Brooklyn

So much visual stimuli here you have to look at this foto again and again. I love the green of the door, graffiti art, and the poster of the child on the brick facade. Most of all I wish I could see the face of that pretty girl on the stoop. I'd bet she's lovely.

Chicks for Sale.

Couldn't resist the foto op. We're out front of a local feed store, and sign points to real, live chicks under grow lighs inside. You can buy 'em by the dozen, raise 'em on the ranch.

Bro Joe B'day 3/23

My adorable brother Joe (shown on the left with other adorable brother Charlie) celebrates the big 66 tomorrow, March 23rd. If you know Joe, see Joe, send him all best wishes.

Sedan Showroom?

Victor's Kurdish Killim.

Oriental carpets in Wickenburg? Killims and silks, antiques and just-mades? Yup. Right behind the Bedoian Bistro on Wickenburg Way. Proprietor and carpet maven Victor B. knows his rugs and has some exceptional examples for sale. Here Victor shows off an old Kurdish Killam from Iran that now graces a special spot in front of a dresser at #10.

Slow (snow) Going.

Soleri Windbells.

A major source of operating revenue for Arcosanti are the windbells. Each one individually cast in bronze, and identified by the artist who made it, the bells make a perfect gift for any occcasion, as the promo literture explains. these bells are also tres cher. We spied some pieces that were priced north of $5000 each.

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Heed This Advice!

You won't find any sophisticated Doppler over at Wellick Field. Plain old common sense is what the planes (and their pilots) rely on when flying in AZ skies. Check it out.

Twin Ciities Bike Share.

Fine sense of velo humor outside famed Walker Art Center.

Crusty Crustaceans.

Jason + The Mayor.

Our friend, neighbor and Mayor of the City of Medina, MN stopped by the house over Thanksgiving to say hello to our son Jason. Liz Weir is a wise and attentive mentor, and loves to talk politics -- which is something J enjoys as well. Managed to snap a foto of the two just before they dived back in on the subject of the effective use of Municipal Assets and Resources in long-range regional planning.

Santa-Gaggia Claus.

Santa has been visiting Bayview Farm & Garden for so many years that some of the children who have had their photos taken are grown now and bringing their own children! He is so kind and generous to sit with the families and canine friends for photos. Our greenhouse will be magically transformed into Santa's own home in the North Pole. Mrs. Claus will be baking cookies to share, and they're so yummy! PS: Note the mouth is normally off to one side, making it look like I am talking out of the side of my mouth…..

Larson/Cramer @ Three Doors.

I've written about my designer friend, Dan Cramer. He is a furniture designer and cabinet maker (you see his latest work in the foreground of this foto) while Dan's biz partner, Mark Larson, is a painter. You can see Mark's almost surreal portrait painted on the doors of Dan's credenza. Larson/Cramer were feted at the Three Doors show last weekend at Galleria. I'll likely regret I didn't buy that cabinet!

Harvest Moon Co-Op

A bunch of us regulars at the Harvest Moon Co-Op were listening to a talk by Polar Explorer Will Steger the other night when photog Camille asked us to "Say Cheese." I'm sure she meant the organic variety.

Luna Lux Celebrates 20.

Harmon Place's Luna Lux celebrated its 20th birthday by throwing a fabulous Cookie Party, offering 20% discounts on their clever and uber-high quality stationery, cards, other printed products. For customers, a chance, too, for hands-on letter press printing expreience, w/help of owner Jenni and her staffers, Forrest and Andrea. Good times -- and a smudge of ink -- were had by all!

Nancy and Joe Hoyt.

Felted Fool's Cap.

A craftslady friend, herself new to making felt hats, showed her handiwork at Fall Valley Hook-in over the weekeknd in Stillwater. We stopped by the exhibit table, tried on the beanie, and Poppina snapped a foto for the record.

Engine 504 from Prague.

The late Jim Machacek ran a narrow gauge railroad on his place down in Northfield. The "road" was assembled over the years, doted on with a craftsman's TLC, oiled and tended with an old fashion eye to posterity. Powering the line was Old 504, a steam engine that runs today as well as it did when new a century ago. The steamer was imported from Europe and, I ask myself: how did this exquisite machine ever make the trip in one piece?

Baker Park Mile Zero

Parked the foldy Giant next to start/finish of the 6.2 mile loop at Baker Park. Never too much traffic in the opposite lane, but you may see a blader, fellow cyclist or even a horse or two on your journey.

La Nancita Hooked Rug.

I've written in this space of the admiration I have for the astonishing skills posessed by my wife the rug-hooker. To date she's created nearly 50 masterpieces of wool art, the latest of which is pictured above. So far, anyway, La Nancita has not sold any of her work; rather, each has been a gift to someone important in our lives. I'll let you know later where this lovely three-pony goes to live and bring joy to family and friends.

Me + Clip on Owasso.

My buddy and former C '61 classmate Clip Kniffin is in town from Chicago today with wife Ellie. They're babysitting grand-twins up in Rosemont, and Clip invited me up for a chit-chat. While we were yucking it up over old times Ellie put the kids in the playpen, grabbed the SONY and snapped away. Lake Owasso in the background came out very nice, and the guys ...? Not so bad, considering ....

Sam Digs "Pocahontas County" Bluegrass Band.

My freind Sam Stout was in town to hang with Justin and Jake of "Pocahontas County." The boys asked Sam to sit in but he decided to decline the invite, simply enjoy the magical harmony already underway.

Coxie and his Muse.

My pal Craig Cox gets most of his inspiration from his wife Sharon, as she certainly gets from her hubby. Great people, great partnership.

Packing Dates at the Co-op.

Harvest Moon is our local Co-op and they always seem to have something interetsting -- and healthy -- going on. One of the staffers sorts a recent bulk shipment of California dates into individual pint containers, where lucky shoppers will be able to taste them soon. I got a preview (asked nicely :) ) and I'm here to tell you these babies rock. Even if you're not a member of Harvest Moon you oughta savor the desert goodness of these special fruits.

Landing the Monster!

A couple of eager young fishermen show off their recent piscine acumen. This looks like a sea robin to me, not much good to eat, but a lot of fightin' fun!

John Dory under Sail

My pal Quig is a helluva skipper, and sails his exquisitely restored and maintained "John Dory" off Marblehead, MA. Can't you almost feel the breeze in your face, taste a bit of salt in the air?

Fresh Fruit 4th of July.

Lisa and Sven the Shire.

Neighbor Lisa and her humongous Shire horse, "Sven," paid a visit the other day. They walked down the driveway, like a couple of cars, and stopped at our front door. We love it when our neighbors drop in!

How they Biting?

Welcome to Young.

Young, New South Wales, is the cherry capital of Australia. Pals Carolyn and James Terman, world travelers from Boulder, CO, snapped the fotos on a trip Down Under and said 'OK' to posting it on the Poppy Blog.

Sixteen Candles?

My friend Ferg captures Old Poppy celebratig his 70th the other night. Poppina and Liz had baked a magnificent gluten-free carrot cake (recipe courtesy of Meredith, whom you can see in background of pic). Good times, and second helpings, were had by all :)

Indian Pawn Jewelry.

Western trading posts have been making American Indian jewelry available to customers forever. Some of the pieces - nickel silver, massive turquoise -- are old, cherished, classics, and sold to the shops as "pawn." Sort of like consignment sales I've come to understand. Prices are lower here (in this case Ortega's in Gallup, NM) than at big city jewelry stores, but the best bracelets nonethleless command top dollar. We took some pics so Santa can have an easier time of it this Christmas.

Cowgal Singer Allison.

Allison Alther has the most memorable cowgal voice we've ever heard. Every bit as remarkable as Annie Murry and Emmylou Harris, Allison hails from British Columbia, but winters -- and SINGS -- in Wickenburg, AZ. We were fortunate to hear her perform this week, and asked her to come chat with us during her break. And, she signed the liner notes in the jewel case of the CD we're listening to right now. Check out this cowgal Allison Alther.

Lucky Enough!!

Ain't this sign cool? If you're lucky enough .... indeed! Had to stop the Giant yesterday and take this foto. Hope you enjoy this, and consider yourself lucky enough.

Alley-Way Ooohs and Ahhhs.

This gorgeous old garage presented itself as I was riding in an alleyway today. Dirt road, sun-beaten paint fading into precious pastels. Lots more buildings like this one for the looking, the oohing and ahhing. You should check it out for yourself.

Seward Johsnon Sculpture of Miner and Burro.

Mom, "J" Try on Boots.

Do the Math

"Gambler"

Classic "Hiawatha" one-speed chained up in Calhoun Square. The model is "Gambler" -- you might be able to read the head badge -- odd name I thought for a 60's era coaster brake clunker. Anyone know the brand and model?

Ladies who Tea.

Liz and Lucy stopped by yesterday for a spot of tea. I brewed up a pot of the Mirabelle loose tea Poppina received for her birthday. Yumm. My lovely lady friends loved their respite, and pose in front of the fireplace, mugs in hand, out of gratitude to tea pickers and growers, everywhere!

Honda 600.

Poppina rocks a completely restored Honda 600, vintage 1973, as it sits in state at the Pauly dealership in Libertyville, IL. We contemplated a test drive but this otherwise adorable car is so teeny, tiny that neither of us could really fit through the driver's side door and behind the wheel (:

Mike + Sam @ Arrow.

Successful fashion retailer Mike welcomed Sam and me to his store last week. Desite Sarah's best efforts to make me feel cool, I think Arrow might be a little too hip for Old Poppy. But Nancy/Sam, on the other hand, found something just right for her, and put some stylin' items on Christmas layaway for adorable and deserving children in our lives!

Corner Table.

That's my journal on the corner table at Dunn Bros. Coffee on Lake Ave. and Bryant. Can't vouch for the wall art but the iced skim lattes and banana nut bread were blue ribbon winners!

Breakfast @ Butlers.

Scary Grandsons!!!!

My Dad, ca. 1938.

Peace Cycling, Bolinas.

Brother Joe almost stepped on this peace bike on his daily walk in Bolinas, CA. Impresed with the good humor, superb chalk execution by the unknown artiste, Joe sent it for posting on the Poppy Velo blog. Gracias, hermano.

Walk and Be happy.

As seen near a very cozy wooden bench overlooking the Mississippi River, St. Paul MN.

Overlooking the Mississippi from St. Paul side, Marshall Street Bridge in background.

Grazin' Goat at ASI.

You gotta see it to believe it. How DID this goat sculpture end up on the roof of the new addition to the American Swedish Insitute?

Lake Minnetonka.

Ollie's Wagon.

This old manure spreader rests at peace in a field near my home. Work done for now. Manure spread. Crops grown and harvested. Wonder if "Oliver" earned a bonus this year for working as hard as he did? Think machines get their version of our pay and benefits?

Headin' Home.

Caught this one on Tamarack the other day: smooth road surface, no wind, steady balance, autofocus on my digi Kodak. Sweet.

Mike Loves Chris.

Always and Ever Love on the handrail along the Mighty Mississippi, St. Anthony Falls, MN.

Chew This!

Brother Joe captured a special American moment as he was hitchking through Pennsylvania in 1998. Reminds us Hoyt boys of Ross County, Ohio -- our home turf -- where barns county-wide were painted with Mail Pouch ads. Chew them plugs, brothers.

Almost Fall.

Puffy, ethereal seeds poised to blow away, grow back again another day.

Landmark Status?

What a great looking coffee shop. And the java shots pulled inside are memorable as well. If the Mpls. City Fathers (and Mothers) get the urge, it would be OK with Dunn Bros. Im sure to honor this enchanting old downtown building with some landmark status!

Extreme Tenting!

Jason popped into Target and flew out with a 4-man tent as suitable for the Himalayas as it is for the back yard in Long Lake. Sweet dreams!

Birthday Bike.

5-yr. old ogles brand new b'day bike. Cousins look on, Dad as well.

"Old" Lake St.

iPhoto options include making what's new appear old-ish. Not quite B+W or Sepia. I enjoy the "look." And you, dear reader?

Wake Board Winners.

Young contestants show off winning banner after taking first prize at Long Lake beach in Mpls. west metro.

Big , mysterious, rural propane tank.

Utne Reader Reunion at Chatterbox.

Utne Reader alumni pose for a pic after lunch yesterday at Chatterbox Cafe in St. Paul. The younger good looking one is Craig Cox, now managing editor of Experience Life. The old guy is a pensioner and damned grateful for Big Government!

Bikers for Christ.

Descanso.

Tibute to fallen cyclist along US Hwy. 40 in Steamboat Springs, CO.

OLD 'DOZER.

Young guys and old earth moving equipment -- quite a contrast!

DeGroff Construction Crew.

Whole Foods Velo-Gellato.

Overlooking Stone Arch Bridge and Mississippi River.

Almost pastoral, I'd say. I was careful not to let the young lady working on her Masters Thesis to notice me take the photo. Dry, brown grass in foreground a consequence of too little rain, and too much searing heat, here in the Twin Cities.

No More Shit.

Old time manure spreader has been retired from active duty, now serves as summer flower planter in the side yard of a home along Holy Name Drive in Medina.

Table for Two.

Nothing is more romantic than dining by candlelight, at a table for two. Nancy and I enjoyed a romantic dinner last weekeknd in the Bahamas -- our place cards prove it -- as do the candles all over the table. instead of just the two of u, hoever, there were closer to 40 good people breking bread. Romantic turned to rambunctious, and we had ourselves quite an evening!

Halcyon Days.

The Halcyon is a bird of Greek legend and the name is now commonly given to the European Kingfisher. The ancients believed that the bird made a floating nest in the Aegean Sea and had the power to calm the waves while brooding her eggs. Fourteen days of calm weather were to be expected when the Halcyon was nesting - around the winter solstice, usually 21st or 22nd of December. The Halcyon days are generally regarded as beginning on the 14th or 15th of December.

Harbour Island Wedding.

More will be revealed about the marriage last Saturday of Nancy's son Will Wick to the lovely Jennifer White Kelly on the beach in Harbour Island, Bahamas. Here's a taste of the scene: a very proud Mother of the groom and her equally proud mate (me).

Better in Bahamas!

Jason, Wendy + Terrell had a great time @ Will + Jen's wedding last weekend in Harbour Island. Me and Poppina, too!

Bahamas Street Legal.

Little Harbor Island in the Bahamas, an hour by ferry from Nassau, and five minutes to the windward of Eleuthera, measures 3 1/2 miles long by 1/2 mile wide. This pink sand Paradise is way too tiny for a fleet of Hertz rental cars, so the visitor makes do with with a Club Car or Yamaha golf cart. All are licensed, like # 1496 here. All show their age and condition. None drives too fast. All stay on the left side of the road (this was once the Empire don't forget) and driving these babies in the Bahamas is a ton more fun than running around a municipal golf course someplace in the States!

Planet Soccer Art.

Does this artwork stop you in your tracks, or what? Planet Soccer sports some of the City's most ambitious and edgy "sales art." The store was closed when i snapped this foto, otherwise I would have popped in to buy .... something!

U Must read This!

Robert Reich writes: I’m not a conspiracy theorist (you can’t have served in Washington and seriously believe more than two people can hold on to a big story without it leaking), but I fear that at least since 2010 we’ve been witnessing a quiet, slow-motion coup d’etat whose purpose is to repeal every bit of progressive legislation since the New Deal and entrench the privileged positions of the wealthy and powerful — who haven’t been as wealthy or as powerful since the Gilded Age of the late 19th century.

Its techique is to inundate America with a few big lies, told over and over (the debt is Obama’s fault and it’s out of control; corporations and the very rich are the “job creators” that need tax cuts; government is the enemy, and its regulations are strangling the private sector; unions are bad; and so on), and tell them so often they’re taken as fact.

Then having convinced enough Americans that these lies are true, take over the White House, Congress, and remaining states that haven’t yet succumbed to the regressive right (witness Tuesday’s recall election in Wisconsin).

I desperately hope I’m wrong, but all there’s growing evidence I may be right.

Thoughts Make You Wealthy.

..we often overlook the simplest, yet one of the easiest methods to prosper and lead a life full of love and satisfaction.

Today, remember to appreciate everyone and everything. Your food. Your mate. Your family. Your colleagues. Money in your wallet and bank accounts. Also appreciate the challenging people in your life or people in the press who are really not your favorites.

Become rich with intense feelings of appreciation.

Thoughts Make You Wealthy. Wealth and success start with what you choose to think and talk about most of the day.

Prosperous thoughts,

Richard Levy

www.thoughtsmakeyouwealthy.com

Richard + Whit

My cousin Richard Bown is a skilled cabinet maker and woodworker plying his trade in his downtown Minneapolis workshop. Whit Schrader is a young pal of mine, recently arrived in town, and beginning to connect and make new friends. I thought the two guys would enjoy meeting each other, so last Friday I helped the men shake hands and smile for the camera.

Rob't. Reich Knows Economic Score.

Yet American consumers don’t have the cash or the willingness to spend more. Not only are they worried about keeping their jobs, but their wages keep dropping. The median wage continues to slide, adjusted for inflation. Average hourly earnings in May were up 2 cents – an increase of 1.7 percent from this time last year – but that’s less than the rate of inflation. And the value of their home – their biggest asset by far – is still declining. The average workweek slipped to 34.4 hours in May.

Corporate profits are healthy largely because companies have found ways to keep payrolls down – substituting lower-paid contract workers, outsourcing abroad, using computers and new software applications. But that’s exactly the problem. In paring their payrolls, they’re paring their customers.

What's for Lunch.

A fiver will get you a small pie and a soda for lunch in Hopkins. I liked the "look" of the offer and will have to go back this coming week and sample the small pep and pop.

Terman @ Denver's Forney Museum.

Watercolor virtuoso James Terman whipped this one up during a recent visit to Denver's Forney Transportation Museum. The 175 cc cycle really is the robin's egg blue you see here. Artist James was working on his watercolor "chops," as he put it, in prep for a bicycle trip to Hungary he and Caroyln have scheduled in July. Watercolor travels well, is adaptable, and the perfect tool for the curious, parapetetic artist we know James to be :)

Random Act of Velo Kindness.

The service road at the western end of Long Lake was seriously flooded this afternoon: result of 2+ inches of rain we got last night. An already swolen lake was ready to overflow its banks.

As I approached the puddle-issimo in the KIA a fellow velo-er was stopped inches from the water: bemused, befuddled, not quite sure how he'd get himself and his Trek Madone across to the other side.

"Hop in," I called out, "and put your bike in the back. Happy to help you ford the stream."

And so a good ride today became a great ride -- for the Trek guy as well as Old Poppy.

Biker Friendly Church.

This sighting is a first: a Biker Friendly Church, corner of Jefferson St. at Conewango in Warren, PA. House of Worship: all are welcome. Keep your RPM's down, please.

Bug Buster Busts Bugs.

Brother Joe and wife Nancy are like kids in a bubble: their Fla. home is tented so exterminators can eliminate any vestage of tropical creepy crawlers. House should be good as new in no time.

Lawn Chairs of St. Paul

Colorful plastic lawn and patio chairs, stacked high in their spendor, await eager buyers at a harware store along Grand Avenue in St. Paul. A passerby nearly tripped over me as I was taking this shot -- she disguised any anger she may have had, but must have thought I was a nut-case. Plastic chairs? Worthy of an iPhone snap? Wat do YOU think, dear reader?

Joe ate Pommelo.

Indeed I have eaten the Pommelo! They are a huge version of grapefriut, but don't have the acidic blast. The skin is thick and peels easily. The segments of the fruit separate readily and are mild and tasty. Try it, you'll like it.

Big Brother Banking?

My local bank branch has video communication technology, so the teller inside the bank can see me, in the car. And we can enjoy a virtual transaction. Almost as personal as the good old days. Had to remind readers of PPV what this pensioner looks like as he makes a deposit.

Don't U Luv the Light?

Jessie had her keen eye (and iPhone) in just the right frame of mind when she snapped this striking image last week in Long Island City, NY. Reminds me of the national flag of a colorful, creative and happy republic on distant shores.

Manual Typewriter Maven

Vale Typewriters on Penn Ave. in Richfield specializes in old, lovingly-restored manual machines. And business is good, according to owner Mark S. "I've sold more than 100 portables since December," he reports. Demand is strong from writers, students, collectors, and artists alike. Mark let me try out a 50-year-old Smith-Corona that he'd refurbished with a chemical bath, key and spring adjustment, new ribbon, and TLC. Prices are a bargain -- $125 and up for a portable. Get 'em while they last, doncha think?

Upbeat Buddies of Mine.

My dear pal Craig Cox and I had lunch earlier this week at Chatterbox on Cleveland Ave. in St. Paul. After hugs and high fives, and a few benign truth-stretchers, we got down to the business of living life well. And "Coxie," ever the optimist and pragmatist, reminded me "it's all about attitude and gratitude."

You are what you think about, or some-such words. We have so much to be thankful for, he says. So why waste precious time whining, kvetching, taking someone else's inventory when we can be generating positive energy, smiling, laughing, making life a little better for someone else -- and ourselves along the way.

And speaking of sunshine, Jim Jowett another dear old-pal from our days working together in the magazine business,

and I were talking over coffee this week at Dunn Bros. in Hopkins. We agreed that somewhere in the soul of each of us our respective families had planted the notion that part of our job in life was to be interested in others, be caring, empathetic and supportive ... to spread some sunshine to folks we meet each day along the way.

My life is richer for friends like Jim and Craig. Thank you both.

Mike Takes the Reins.

A confident and comfortable Mike takes the reins of an old-fashion horse-drawn wagon, and gives a dozen passengers a ride they'll long remember.

Hillegass + His New Benz.

After coffee this morning and lots of chatter, my friend Jim H. suggested we hop in the new Mercedes (me in the driver's seat!), buckle up, and put this gorgeous new Benz wagon through it paces. Off we rocketed, in the most remarkable comfort and safety, while Hillegass kept urging me to floor it. The driver's seat gave me a back rub enroute, the built-in radar kept me a sfae distance behind he pokey Buick in front of us, and when I swayed I to the right and crossed the white lane divider, some Teutonic technology gently slowed the behemoth down, and brought us flawlessly back into our own lawn. Awesome. Amazing. Wowzer. Want one now! PS - Got back to the lot with nary a scratch on the 9 coats of onyx black lacquer, and didn't even get the chance to lay on the horn :)

Star Magnolia in Bloom!

Poppina's green thumb comes throuhg one more time. Her "Magnolia Starlatta" is bursting with colorful blossoms on the northwestern side of the house. Couldn't ask for a more gorgeous spring gift!

Freight Car Wheels A-Turnin'.

Underneath the SOO 63397 car the precision-cast steel wheels are shiny-good as new. If you could get one of these, what would you do with it? Sell for scrap? Hang on the wall of your Man Cave?

With Thanks to Richard Levy.

Where are the junky, worn-out things, old memories, and clutter in your home? In the basement, garage, kitchen, closet, or attic? On your desk?

Whether or not you are experiencing financial or relationship challenges, cleaning out and disposing of clutter attracts good, more good, and even much more good into your life.

Clutter in the home means, on some level, there is clutter in the mind. Any disharmony in your thoughts-whether on a conscious or subconscious level-tells the Almighty Universe to bring disharmony into your personal relationships or financial affairs.

Cleaning out the clutter from your home requires a conscious decision and action-today, not tomorrow. Tomorrow is for dreamers, today is for winners.

Cactus Patch Kids

Carolyn and James Terman snapped this one of me and Pina out in the garden. Catctus Patch Kids the Termans called it. Ha!!

Spiritual Axiom.

The Great Task

Lawrence Kushner

When you see something that is broken, fix it. When you find something that is lost, return it. When you see something that needs to be done, do it. In that way, you will take care of your world and repair creation.

Source: Eyes Remade for Wonder

Adam Hoyt Rides a Century.

My nephew Adamo rests at Chekika, 60% into a 100-mile ride he and dad Joe pedaled last weekend in Fla.

WE ALL NEED A LITTLE MOTHER TERESA.

"People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway. If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway." - Mother Teresa"

Hwy. 60 "Descanso" Memorial.

A very respectful, and sad, no doubt, family built a roadside tribute to the dad, who lost his life in an auto accident along Hwy. 60.

Passage

Nancy Compton Williams

I never willedthese forty daysin the wilderness,tempted bythe demonsof accustomed scars.But no other wayleads home.

Listening Hills.

Late afternoon sun west of Wickenburg leaves mark in Listening Hills neighborhood development.

Nancy: Sugar + Spice.

My sister-in-law poses near naturel, hotty-skimpy, at Fruit + Spice in South Dade.

DREAMS

Dreams

Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreamsFor if dreams dieLife is a broken-winged birdThat cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreamsFor when dreams goLife is a barren fieldFrozen with snow.

When Google Doesn't Have all the Answers.

The sign at Gospel Outreach church in Wickenburg says it all: sometimes you need more than internet access and a Googe app. to get the answers you're searching for. How true!

Prescott, AZ Timeline.

Yavapai County Courthouse Sidewalk Teems with News of a Young State. So much to see and learn. So very cool. Check it out.

Wickenburg, AZ Airfield

Rev. Mike Recommends:

We Have Enough

Elizabeth Canham

Knowing that we have enough takes us out of the never-ending tension created by greed, out of the constant envy of others that causes us to overlook our own riches, and out of the turmoil of unmet desires.

Gurley Street Coffee.

Robert Reich Nails it.

Never before in the history of our Republic have so few spent so much to influence the votes of so many.

Speaking about PAC's, secret giving, power behind the throne.

Samoas Sold Here!

Local G.S. Troop in front of Wickenburg P.O. moved lots of boxes of yummy cookies the day I took this pic.

Mitt Romney + Who??

Bumper Sticker - It's On.

Bedoian Bakery + Cafe.

I chowed one of these spectacular creme-filled ginger cookie "sandwiches." Everything at Bedoian is homemade, served with enthusiasm and respect, and the taste defies description.

Old '78,' Gatos Catch Up.

Legendary Ad Sales Exec Rich Katz and I grabed breakfast at the Horseshoe when "Gatos" was in town on sales calls last week.

Honda 50 Cub CA: 1964.

Joe sent this Brotherly Love on a Honda foto today. Taken by my Sis in the front yard of Mother's house on St. Gaudens Road in Coconut Grove in 1964, it shows the bothers Hoyt at their best -- Hawaiian baggy surfing shorts, gifts from Crary, and long-gone like a blown out storm.

Clydesdales at Basha's.

Basha's supermarket in Wickenburg is pulling out all the equine stops to move lots of Bud Light this NFL playoff season. Being very western, and horsey, out here in the AZ desert, i thought for a minute that this big Clydesdale was the real deal! Just a fiberglass facsimile, all dressed up and ready to help us toast the gridiron greats of 2012. Salud!

Amazed at Use of "Amazing."

amazing[əˈmeɪzɪŋ]

adj

causing wonder or astonishment amazing feats

Writers overuse the word "amazing." This adjective is everywhere these days.

"Amazing" is an un-amazing, and ineffective, modifer. It's lost its ability to clarify and enhance. The word shows up in front of nouns when writers can't think of another word to use.

Reminds me of "awesome" not too long ago. Everything was awesome. Ugh.

Or, "far out." I'm dating myself here.

My mother would admonish: if you can't find something good to say about someone, then don't say anything. By extension, if you can't find a more descriptive and enriching adjective than amazing, then don't use anything.

Legal But Scandalous

"A loophole in the tax laws allows private-equity managers like Romney to treat their compensation as capital gains. It’s legal but it’s a scandal. Income from employment is employment income, period."

Velo Joe + Clan.

Papa Hemingway's Advice.

Pushin' The Pedals Once More.

Just got back from an hour's ride on the Giant hybrid. A slooow ride, of course, 'cause I ain't in great shape. But I was on the road, wearing short pants, sun was shining, and cars behind me were moving a little more to their left, and cutting more slack, than usual. Why is it that a ride never fails to clear your head, get endorphins flowing, blood pumping, and ideas generating?

Cape Cod New Year's Greetings!

Poppina and Poppy can't be together at the same time with all our adorable offpsring and their kids and pets. So we celebrate the arrival of 2012 long-distance, in this case from from Cape Cod. Happy New Year!

Thanks for lunch, J!

Nancy, Jason and I got super-hungry today sightseeing along El Paseo. End up at Sammy's Organic Vegetarian and Wood-fired Pizza joint. Great edamame, baba ghanoush, beet and greens salad -- and our man Jason picked up the tab. Sweet, indeed.

Pina, Bela + Will Arrive in Style.

The venerable Town + Country continues to deliver the family to adventure destinations, inlcuing Palm Springs, CA.

My Gorgeous Sis and Her Adorable Granddaughter.

Where's Santa, dearie?

Old Man Wants This.

What is it about posing in 2012 in front of '54 Fords? I wasn't quite old enough to have my license when River Rouge Plant pumped these babies out by the millions. Nostaligia and passage of the decades can mess with a guy's perspective.

Looking a Lot like Christmas now.

Hopi Ki-Ki Unleavened Bread.

Served with organic loca-vore hummus as an appetizer at Turquoise Room restaurant, adjacent to La Posada Inn, Winslow, AZ.

Five-Buck Parking: Good Deal.

Urban parking is generally a budget-buster, most places you go. Here in the Twin Citiies a guy can still leave his car for the day for a five-spot: pretty good value, don't you think? Lot is on corner of 1st and 2nd, and I liked the price sign that overwhelms the lot and rest of the pic.

Wizard of Whidbey.

My brother-in-law Mark G. caught a glimpse of the legendary Wizard of Widy Island and shared a portrait with us.

Art Car is Weird Truck.

Saw this baby today on 3rd + 3rd. Sorry I coudn't engage the driver -- what a story he must tell!

Martin Patrick 3 Men's Store.

See post to left for description of how the book back-wall was created. Very cool. Check it out.

Bridge Over Hwy. 12, Wayzata.

Forty years ago this plaque was installed by the Hwy. Dep't. over Rte. 1 as it morphs into I-394. Bridge is a little the worse for wear, cosidering the age, but the plaque is distinctively cool.

Deep-Fried Turkey Insanity.

Jason was chef du jour in San Fran over the weekeknd. Big pre-Thanksgiving soiree found our man in the back yard cooking up a storm: 5 turkeys deep-friend in twelve hours! Awesome turnout, reports the cocinero. Good times were had by all.

Choate Reunion: High Point, NC

C '61 classmate Ken Phillips and his wife Pauleitta exhibited at the High Point show last week. C '61 classmate Dave Phillips, in center, High Point resident and no relation to Ken, stopped by for a visit. Ken Phillips reports that the business part of the show was very successful, but having catch-up, face-time with high school classmate and namesake was the best part of it all.

Planet Bike Mission Statement.

Tonka Cycle + Ski in Hopkins is celebrating its "20% off all bike gear" event -- I loaded up yesterday on lights, gloves, cold-weather hats, and rearview mirrors.

While unpacking the "Superflash Blaze Light Set" by Planet Bike, I was reading the back of the box and PB's Mission Statement. Very cool. I share it with you, dear reader, avid biker or not:

"Planet Bike strives to bring you the best bicycle products in the world today. We truly believe in the potential of the bicycle to help improve the world and the lives of the people in it. Therefore, we donate 25% of our company profits to causes that promote and facilitate bicycle usage."

www.planetbike.com

Rusted, Busted Bike Chain.

Lisa's Classic Huffy Santa Fe II seems to have thrown a chain. Looks like it could ue a little White Lightening and maybe a link taken out? Calling all coaster brake "wrenches" .....

"Golden" - Exquisite New Work by Sky Hoyt.

Me and Signore Caprese.

The owner of the Capri Coffee Shop in Brooklyn inivited me to join him behind the counter of his space at Capri, while another satisfied customer too a pic of the gracefully aging signores.

Enjoying the best homemade soup.

Sky, Hugo and I pose for a snapshot outside our new fave lunch spot last weekend. We asked a passer-by couple to take the pic, and learned they were celebrating their 29th wedding anniversary! that

St. Kate's Univ. Still Life

Gettin' all artsy-fartsy with the Collegiate Coffee Mug that Prof. Mary Henderson gave me the other night. St. Catherine tent-card holds notes from students at Center for Sales Innovation. Note to Prof. Lynn Schleeter was just ready to go into the mail as I took this shot. Let me tell you what a solid, sensational place St. Kate's continues to be. I have the high honor of being an occassional speaker + presenter in Mary Henderson's sales class. The students this year were the most engaging, interesting and enthusiastic I've ever met. These gals will NOT have toruble finding a job when the graduate in June 2012.

H.H.T.D.L.

This guy has the answers.

Marriage is Marriage.

U. Minnesota Honey, honey.

Little honey bears on sale at Arboretum w/proceeds to benefit the University of Minnesota. Very cute.

Six-Feet Even.

"Step over here, Mr. Hoyt," said the nurse. "Now stand up straight while I measure you."

Pick a Peck. Maybe a Half Peck?

Over at the supermarket they sell apples by the pound. At the Arboretum, you get 'em by the peck. Or half peck. How quaint: in this fast-paced world, when even weights and measures change before your eyes, ain't it reassuring to get your Sweet Delicious the old fashion way?

Caring for others in the world.

Without even trying, I had a spiritual experience just now. It happened leaving the offices of Metro Dermo in Wayzata. An older gent using a walker was making his way to the front door. He waved me through -- "we're pretty slow," he said -- but I replied that I was in no hurry, take your time, and then held the door for him instead.

"Thank you," replied the octogenarian. "It's nice to see somene who cares about other people in this world."

And care I do.

Moral here? Slow down, pay attention, let older people go first. Then hold the door while reassuring them you're in no hurry.

Add no stress to their lives. Smile, be polite -- and mean it when you act kindly.

All by ourselveswe can make this world today (and every day) just a little better off than we found it.

Bottom Brackets Fixed Here.

Gear West in Long Lake is a great place to get your bottom bracket replaced, a new free-wheel installed, and shift cables lubed just right. " Wrenches" John and Jerrod promised the old TREK 720 would be running good as new by week's end.

Word of the Day - "Contentious"

Let's say you get in a spat with your neighbor. Voices raise, invectives fly, adreneline pumps. One (or both) of you may be arguementative, interested in picking a fight ; yeah, even contentious.

contentious[kənˈtɛnʃəs]

adj

1. tending to argue or quarrel

2. causing or characterized by dispute; controversial

3. (Law) Law relating to a cause or legal business that is contested, esp a probate matter

contentiouslyadv

contentiousnessn

3 Little Cups in a Row.

On the shelf at a coffee shop on Hennepin. Looks like a family of paper cups, don't you think?

Messiah -- Word of the Day.

GOP presidential contender news today -- is Chris Christie of New Jersey the messiah the party awaits? Just what is a messiah, anyway?

Mes·si·ah(m-s)

n.

1. also Mes·si·as(m-ss) The anticipated savior of the Jews.

2. also MessiasChristianity Jesus.

3. messiah One who is anticipated as, regarded as, or professes to be a savior or liberator.

[Middle English Messias, Messie, from Old French Messie, from Late Latin Messs, from Greek, from Aramaic mi, the anointed one (from ma, to anoint) or Hebrew mîa, anointed (from ma, to anoint); see m in Semitic roots.]

Labor Secretary Robert Reich Nails it.

Unemployment in America remains sky-high. 14 million Americans are out of work and 25 million are looking for full-time jobs.

The nation’s infrastructure is crumbling. Our roads, bridges, water and sewer systems, subways, gas pipelines, ports, airports, and school buildings are desperately in need of repair. Deferred maintenance is taking a huge toll.

Now connect the dots. Anyone with half a brain will see this is the ideal time to borrow money from the rest of the world to put Americans to work rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure.

Velo Variety.

Warm and sunny this afternoon so I took almost all the old bikes out of the garage for mini tune-ups. Pumped up the tires, adjusted saddles, did a little lube here, tighten-up, there. The weatherman says we're in for severala more days of exquisite riding weather; maybe I can take a turn on each of these steeds?

Lone Tree, Lone Star State.

Photo courtesy of my brother Joe, snapped somewhere in West Texas. Joe was on road trip from Miami home across southern USA, to Oregon, where he and his wife Nancy are camping and exploring now.

Word of the Day -- Serendipity

Don't you just love this word? There was an icecream parlor by the same name on E. 53rd St. in Manhattan years ago. Maybe still there?

ser·en·dip·i·ty(srn-dp-t)

n.pl.ser·en·dip·i·ties

1. The faculty of making fortunate discoveries by accident.

2. The fact or occurrence of such discoveries.

3. An instance of making such a discovery.

[From the characters in the Persian fairy tale The Three Princes of Serendip, who made such discoveries, from Persian Sarandp,Sri Lanka, from Arabic sarandb.]

seren·dipi·tous adj.

seren·dipi·tous·ly adv.

Word History: We are indebted to the English author Horace Walpole for the word serendipity, which he coined in one of the 3,000 or more letters on which his literary reputation primarily rests. In a letter of January 28, 1754, Walpole says that "this discovery, indeed, is almost of that kind which I call Serendipity, a very expressive word." Walpole formed the word on an old name for Sri Lanka, Serendip. He explained that this name was part of the title of "a silly fairy tale, called The Three Princes of Serendip: as their highnesses traveled, they were always making discoveries, by accidents and sagacity, of things which they were not in quest of...."

Word of the Day: Trenchant.

I see "trenchant" used by the smarter writers I read. Wasn't sure it meant "forceful" and/or "caustic," however:

trench·ant(trnchnt)

adj.

1. Forceful, effective, and vigorous: a trenchant argument. See Synonyms at incisive.

2. Caustic; cutting: trenchant criticism.

3. Distinct; clear-cut.

[Middle English, from Old French, cutting, from present participle of trenchier, to cut; see trench.]

Word of the DAY: EXTIRPATE

Someone told me that Katie Couric (?) added a word-of-the day on her blog, or maybe twitter. Poppy's Velo Ventures is doing likewise. Like you I come across all sorts of interesting words I may once have known, but can't pretend to defiine now.

So, as my Dad used to say, "Seth, look it up........"

Verb

1.

extirpate - destroy completely, as if down to the roots; "the vestiges of political democracy were soon uprooted" "root out corruption"

move, displace - cause to move or shift into a new position or place, both in a concrete and in an abstract sense; "Move those boxes into the corner, please"; "I'm moving my money to another bank"; "The director moved more responsibilities onto his new assistant"

3.

extirpate - surgically remove (an organ)

surgery - the branch of medical science that treats disease or injury by operative procedures; "he is professor of surgery at the Harvard Medical School"

remove, take away, withdraw, take - remove something concrete, as by lifting, pushing, or taking off, or remove something abstract; "remove a threat"; "remove a wrapper"; "Remove the dirty dishes from the table"; "take the gun from your pocket"; "This machine withdraws heat from the environment"

His 'n Her Sinks.

Kenwood Cafe doesn't discriminate on basis of gender when it comes to using their WC, but they DO suggest his and hers hand washing facilities. Weird .. but wonderful!

Socialism Saves Auto Indutry?

"But, yes, this was socialism — or, perhaps, “state capitalism” — because the government temporarily took substantial ownership in the companies when no one in the private sector was willing to put up enough capital to prevent them from going under. Today, the companies are thriving.

"More than that: The auto industry exemplifies how unions can do their best to protect the interests of their members while also ensuring the prosperity of the companies that employ them."

- E. J. Dione in WaPo

Aritst Dianne Gardiner

My favorite part of what I do is the serenity and spirituality I feel.”

Word of the Day: Hegemony.

Someone told me that Katie Couric (?) added a word-for-the day on her blog, or maybe twitter. Poppy's Velo Ventures is doing likewise. I read all sorts of interesting words I may once have known, but can't prented to defiine now. So, as my Dad used to say, "Seth, look it up."

I did with "hegemony" -- learned that emphasis could be on the first or second syllable, w/second syllable winning out -- and here's what it means:

he·gem·o·ny(h-jm-n, hj-mn)

n.pl.he·gem·o·nies

The predominant influence, as of a state, region, or group, over another or others.

Wayne Gardiner, Paperback Writer!!

My writer friend Wayne Gardiner posted today on FB:

"I had a nice surprise last week when I received a certificate from The Storyteller magazine.

"My short story "Cliched," which ran in the April/May/June 2011 issue won 2nd place in their People's Choice Award (readers of the magazine vote on their favorite pieces) in the Fiction category.

"The next thing I have coming out is a short story, "Last Call," which will appear in the Jan/Feb 2012 issue of Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine. Onsale date for that issue is November 8."

Having read Wayne's fiction I can guarantee you he's one helluva fine storyteller. Go get his work: that's an order! You will not be disappointed.

400 Shades of Pastels.

Darren Richeson offers a palette of pastel "values," 400 colors strong. Pastel sticks are hand-rolled in the Unison factory in England as they've made for more than a century. A "stick" measures 1 1/2" tall, and is made of clay, infused with pigments both chemical and natural.

Tree Embraces Bike.

Helped myself to this pic by Ethan Welty. Long time ago, the story goes, an unknown kid chained his then-new bike to a pine on vacheron island. Tree didn't seem to mind and grew around the bike. Imagining that with a Chevy? Nah.

Farm Gals who Bike.

When our fave sustainable small plot farmgal isn't driving Sven the Shire, she's pedaling the backroads on a fixie. Managed to get Lisa to pose for a shot -- hope she likes this as much as I know you, dear reader, is likely to.

Killing Me.

For the past year I've worked as an independent ad sales rep for Leesburg, VA-based Weider History Group. "My" titles of focus have been American History and Wild West, with some sales to show for my efforts in Aviation History and Vietnam magazine as well.

It's been a tough, tough marketlace, but the WHG folks (and most definitely my clients and prospects) have been marvelous to work with -- so supportive, smart, decent and fair.

I decided to resign -- retire for the second time, really! -- and have begun to write my letters of thanks and farewell. I am overwhelmed by emotion -- can't believe I'll miss these folks as much my heart tells me already I will. Yipes!

Part of the reason? I've not adapted well to the "virtual" nature of today's business model. I'm an old fart. I like it mano a mano .. meet your clients face to face .. come to know them over lunch ... build relationships beyond the keyboard and website.

And yet I very much HAVE built good business friendships and relationships in virtual time and space. I sell myself short I think. And I know that because as I say "adios," I feel the loss of new friendships acutely.

Magnificent '53 MG TD.

Saw this exquisite beauty today outside Wayzata CC. Ground-up restore is as fine as any I've ever seen. Dad had a '52 TD, black w/red leather, and my Aunt tried to teach me to drive it. My clutch work was sketchy, the Mig bucked and jumped, and I never could enjoy the ride. Wish the family had kept the car under a tarp for much of the past 60 years. Wouldn't it be great to own it now?

Mothers against drunk Moosing.

A seemingly intoxicated moose is discovered entangled in an apple tree by a stunned Swede in Goteborg, Sweden, late Tuesday. Per Johansson, 45, says he heard a roar from his vacationing neighbor's garden in southwestern Sweden late Tuesday and went to have a look. There, he found a female moose kicking about in the tree. The animal was likely drunk from eating fermented apples

Population as of 9/10/11.

U.S. 312,181,899World 6,961,151,174

Source: US Census Bureau.

Citizen Foldy in its Bag.

Not much bigger, really, than a baseball cap ... the foldy is all folded up in it bag, ready to go. Pretty sweet ride and loads of fun. It's for sale for $85.00.

)@+#*&% Parking Meters!

No more quarter meters remain at Loring Park, it seems. Went to shop at LunaLux on Harmon Place yesterday, and was disappointed to find the 25-cent meters gone. I was a little daunted by the new (for me, at least) techy machines that have taken their place. These new babies require you to remember a 5-digit number as you walk to a payment kiosk and fumble to insert a credit card, and figure out how long you want to stay, and then remember to take your receipt. I did accomplish my mission, not too bad. But the lady in the slot next to me, tentative about exiting her Escalade to repeat the dance she'd seen me do, decided to forego the experience and head to the aattended parking garage. "I am against this new-fangled meter," she protested. "Out of principle I am NOT going to park here today. And so she didn't. The beat goes on.

One of the few boys named 'Seth.'

My name has always been Seth. As a boy growing up in Ohio in the '50s I often wished it were Joe, Pete or Mike; anything but Seth. Tom, Bob, John, Ed, Bill would have been fine. But Seth . Seth was special, unusual and distinctive. I had a special name at a time when I wanted to feel anything but special.

I was reminded of that old memory today. The receptionist at the bank suggested: "I'll bet you were one of the only boys named Seth when you were growing up?"

How did she know? Where did that come from?

"What's your name," I aked? I could have checked the name plate on her desk.

"Leah," she replied. "It's like your name, in a way. No one was named 'Leah' when I was a girl. Now, everyone is."

Leah and I seem to have done OK for ourselves, despite the handicap of "name." Maybe our parents knew, at some unspoken level, that we'd rise above the awkwardness of "special," and go on to be (speaking for myself) reasonably happy, satisfied, grounded, spiritual and productive citizens.

If I'd had a son of my own, might I have named him Seth? As it is, each of my three daughters has a special name, and they all seem to be doing fine, thank you very much.

New "Foldy" - Giant "Expressway"

Sold my Surly LHT back to my bike shop yesterday. As part of the transaction I became the proud owner of this "foldy" Giant Expressway. Couldn't wait to put her through her paces this afternoon over at Baker Park. I have big plans for this little velo: fold 'er up and take the bike with us when Pina and I hit the road in the KIA. We can stop at rural trails as well as urban bike paths. No racks on the back of the car. Room to spare inside the Sportage. Plus, this bike performs: nimble, fast, comfortable (especially when I swapped out the standard padded seat that came with the bike for the Selle Anatomico you see here in this foto). I'll keep you posted on my 20" wheel wanderings.

Women Against War - a Rug.

The late Dorothy Stuber created more than 120 hooked rugs in her artistic career. Most were feminist in their themes: women's work, raising kids, income inequality, prejudice, immigration, and similar issues. Most poignant? For me, Women Against War. It hangs in the Joan Mondale Gallery at the Minnesota Center for Fiber Arts on University Ave. Show comes down on 9/3 -- go see it if you still can.

Viva La Whizzer Cubana!

Joe sent this pic yesterday, courtesy of his pal Bob Goggin, who took the foto in Cuba. This purple beauty is a classic Whizzer motorbike, of indeterminate age and lineage, but it runs fast and looks great. Check out the ape hanger bars! If you Google Whizzers in Cuba you'll learn that this American icon from the 40's, 50's, and 60s is still a mainstream mode of transport in Cuba. An entire, adoring culture has grown up around the Whizzer. And, did you know ..... no, I'll leave the rest of the news to your curious fingers as you surf the net looking for more info.

Handmade Glass Beads.

Lola art show found us at the bead lady's booth. She makes all these by hand, in gorgeous colors and exquisite detail. Loose beads in the "candy dish" are $3-5 each, and make perfect accesories for Crocs, keychains, watch fobs, and ging hippies who weave these into their dreads.

North on Tamarack.

It's a quiet and peaceful joy to ride my velo here in the 'hood. Sun was still high in the sky, temps were close to ideal, not a car in sight, and time to enjoy the ride -- and all the creative thoughts that rumble through my mind on an afternoon on N. Tamarack.

Toss a Seedbomb - 50 cents.

Pacifier baby store on Hennepin near University offers a half-dollar solution to beautify the planet. Seedbombs contain wildflower seeds, and some growing medium, and are dispensed by the machine you see here. The idea is to toss these seedbomsb into any vacant space you come across and -- voila, next season -- hardpan gives way to glorious mantle of bright, beautiful flowers. What do you think?

Mpls. Visitors Rent these Bikes!

Now in its second successful year, the Velo Value bike rental program in the Twin Cities is firing on all cylinders. Better: it's cruising along with each pedal stroke. Four visitors from who-knows-where, cameras in hand, upsteam Mississippi in the field of view they get from mid-point on the Stone Arch Bridge, stop to take in one the awesome sites we locals often take for granted.

U of M ped, bike bridge open for biz.

The vehicle bridge across the Might Miss is under construction and impassable to cars and trucks. Bikes, however, are able to make it acorss the river and come out on the west side of town. I learned this happy lesson today -- squatted behind a fish-shaped bike rack to snap this before pedaling one.

Key Biscayne, Spring, 1957.

Brother Joe sent me this oldie-but-goodie today -- hadn't seen it in more than a half-century. I'd say the Hoyt clan from Chillicothe looked right at home on the silver sands of FLA's Key Biscayne. Mom entertains, from left, Joe, David, Crary, Cubby and (now) Poppy. What a wonderful time we had -- and I'm not sure I even realized how fortunate we all were while it was happening.

Service with the best smile!

Why do I look forward to going to Pilgrim Cleaners? Because the folks there are so damned friendly! The smile that greets you as you come in the door makes you feel like family. And the quality of the work is superb. Right on, Pilgrim!

Gaggia Generational Chill

My fave neice Emily snapped this of her dad Mark, catching some zzzz's on the sofa with daugher Lu out like a light on a very comfy barrell chest!

No Camper Creature Comforts.

No GPS, no MP-3, no A/C, no power brakes, no cruise, no power windows, no moon roof; a stick, drum brakes, 0-55 in about half a day. How the hell did we have so much fun on the road with so few creature comforts?!

How Gov't. Can Help. Now.

From Washington Post online today:

Over the next decade, the federal government is slated to spend hundreds of billions of dollars building roads, schools, airports, trolley lines and airport terminals, modernizing the air traffic control system, replacing computer systems and buying planes, ships, tanks, trucks and cars. Moving up some of that spending from years 8, 9 and 10 to years 1,2 and 3 won’t cost any more in the long run, or increase the long-term deficit any more, but could sure help put a floor under the economy in the short run. For those worried about pork, the actual spending decisions could be left to an independent Infrastructure Bank.

Better than the golden arches!

Me and my fave gal under the arches at the funky mini-golf-course-cum-sunflower-garden out Minnetrista way.

Thought about growing a beard.

Then thought the better of it. Pic is pre-shave. We won't soon do this again.

Scary Good-Looking Bike Shirt.

Brother Joe picked out this baby for me on a recent trip to Woody Creek, CO. Proceeds go to a scholarship fund in the name and honor of the late Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, Gonzo journalist and habitue of the Woody Creek Tavern. Thompson launched his bid for Sheriff of Woody Creek after a few still scotches at the bar -- seemed like a good idea at the time.

Looking across Lake Minnetonka.

Pina and Poppy were chillin' in the Gazebo at Noerenberg Gardens when we took this. Off in the distance you can see the Lafayette Club. Up in the sky? Well, lots of clouds. On the water? No traffic to speak of considering the glory of the day, the mid-80's temps, and an evening made for aquatic action.

We All Need a Little Mother Teresa.

"People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway. If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway." - Mother Teresa"

Smilin' Past the Pumps!

This little import gets 45+ MPG. And the driver takes more than a bit of pleasure letting the rest of us know that our carbon footprints are bigger than his! Next time you see a smiley face, let up on the gas pedal, and watch a grin come over your face as you cruise past the pumps.

Long Lake Roadside Memorial.

Out west they call them "descansos." They're home-made tributes to fallen friends and family members, victims of fatal automobile accidents too painful to forget. The honored victim here -- corner of Old Long Lake Road and Old Hwy. 12 in Long Lake -- remains anonymous. Nor is there an explanation on the wooden cross of the details of the accident. Condolenes to the family that suffered this loss. And in this tragedy let us remember to drive carefully, wear seat belts, walk with care, don't text, lose the cell, and no drinking and driving.

Skateboarding Prohibited in Wayzata.

Wayzata, MN built this attractive planter in front of a business on Lake Street. Curious about the "hooks" that curve over the cement curb -- in an orderly but unorthodox way -- I stopped inside the office to ask the receptionist what was up? She replied: curved hooks are bronze, screwed into the cement curb, and discourage skateboarding -- did she mean shredding? -- along the planter wall. In this very contentious tax environment, skating does not seem to be a problem in Wayzata. So why the extra expense and effort to stop a handful of kids from being ... well, kids?

Me and Quigley at Fletcher's.

Poppina got this postcard shot of Peter Quigley and me -- the Lords of Lord Fletcher's -- after the three of us had dinner there on Tuesday this week.

Quigley ponders "surf;" where's "turf?"

Old friend and FinancialWorld colleague Peter Quigley came to the Twin Cities on biz, and Nancy and I were lucky to snag him for a fine dinner catch-up. While the Hoyts selected local fresh water walleye off the menu at Lord Fletcher's, PQ went for the lobster tail -- seafood that might just as easily have preceeded him from New England a scant 24 hours earlier?

Summer Breeze, Summer Boss Cheese.

Back in our undergraduate days the Blind Nine sang of summer breeze, while thinking of little but Boss Cheese. You know: lovely young ladies who bought our acts, made us feel fine. Saw this hilarious sign today on Grand Ave. in St. Paul, and stopped to take a foto to e-mail to the Nine. Memories began to flood back in.

Sherman Awaits Final NASA Shuttle.

Patriot, historian, intrepid and imaginative chronicler of Americana, my old USAF buddy Bill Sherman can be seen here along the Banana River Causeway in FL ready to capture the Shuttle Atlantis on its historic last flight. Sherman traveled from home in San Fran to Fla., on his nickle, to be part of history. His grandkids and their kids will be pleased and proud someday that Bill got some great footage.

Bud Nadeau, Treeman Extraordinaire.

Upclose and personal with Bud. This guy is good! One reason he's still at it aloft is the care he takes with his craft, and the patience and planning he brings to the task. I'll have to ask if he's ever fallen out of a job?

First Summer Squash of 2011.

Nancy picked the first three squash (es) from our veggie garden yesterday. Cooked 'em up to accompany a stroganof we'd taken out from the co-op. The veggies were exquiisite -- tasty, of course; so light and mild you could have eaten them all night long. Hooray for summer vegetables and the gardens in which they grow. We'll keep you posted.,

Big Ass Willow Down, Misses LHT.

Big storm blew through Orono the other night, took Big Ass Willow down with it. Vestiges remain near US Hwy. 12 in background. Surly LHT poses next to branch for scale and perscpective. Bike was not crushed, neither its rider :)

Pond Scum Recedes, Pops to Life!

At the end of Tamarack, right after you get into Orono, and before coming to a stop at Cty. Rd 6, there's an unnatural pond on the east side of the road. All spring long the cedar fence has been underwater -- result of heavy rains this season. As the water recedes, and the pond scum comes to life, the look of the place takes on a verdant glow. Pretty appealing, but not sure I'd want to swim there!

Still Life w/Wabash College Cap.

My buddy Morrie Adams sent me a branded gimme cap from his alma mater, Wabash College, in Crawfordsville, IN. The hat is so good looking that it cries out for artistic treatment -- easy on the wearing. So I posed ole Wabash in the back seat of the KIA Sportage, next to a bag of take out chocolate brownies from Panera in Plymouth, MN. May NOT have been what Morrie had in mind, but it sure makes for a nice foto! Thanks, amigo.

Banjo Busker.

Pina and I were at lunch in Steamboat at the Creekside Cafe. Yummy wraps and salads, and a tempting dessert. Just outside the wrought iron fence, and clearly not part of the "official" fare, a banjo busker picked his way through "Froggy Went a Courtin" and earned a five-spot from old Poppy. i did NOT buy the CD, however.

Nancy M. Hoyt + Standard Poodle.

Doin' Hard Time.

Ask Butler what this is all about!

Surly - In out of the rain.

Rode over to Panera in Plymouth Station in time for iced espresso drink, chocolate chip cookie, and a powerful thunder and lightening storm you can see brewing in the clouds reflected from Panera front window.

Now Here's a Real Mohawk.

Spotted this remarkable hairdo at the Third Thursday Body Art Show at Minneapolis Art Institute.

Old Gold Medal Flour Mill.

From Stone Arch Bridge, Mississippi River to our backs, Jason and I had a good view of the old Gold Medal (nee Washburn) Mill before the fire and explosion that destroyed this landmark some years ago.

Go, Twins!

Pina and I have Twins all over the place. The Minnesota Twins, of course, but more importante: Duncan and Oliver who celebrate their 6th birthdays today back in CT. Go, Twins!!

Crab Apple Blossoms Not Crabby!

Managed to get a quick pic of these exquisite blossoms while the sun was out in Pina's garden. Really lovely as the Gardener Mom makes sure trees are trimmed and cared for each year. Rain commenced shortly after the shot, wind picked up, trees lost their blossoms, but we're left with this pretty special visual memory.

Fine Memory of 50th H.S. Reunion

The guy in the middle of this pic, Henry Hotchkiss, is a fomrer teacher (master) of ours at Choate School. Back to help us toast ourn50th, Henry (we can drop the Sir at this stage?) looks every bit as young as the other guys -- my classmates from long ago: Morrie Adams, Rick Eisenhart and Ted Horne. Mrs. Ted Horne (Penny) is the glamourpuss babe of thr group: far better looking, and more interesting to talk to, than the rest of us mugs put together!

Teenie Froggie in Miami Backyard.

Brother Joe sent this little tropic gem from a tree branch in his backyard in Coral Gables, FL.. Check out the exquisite detail. Wouldn't want to meet up with this dude (dudette?) as I stuck my unknowing hand into the abyss.

Sammy, Liz + Bootsy.

Good Medina friends Sam and Bootsy flank Liz on her 40th wedding anniversary celebration. The rain held off, well-wishers filled the Weir home to overflowing, Liz and Ken's kids Conor and Fergus threw a surprose bash for Mom and Da, and we firtunate guestes had a fabulous evening toasting our dear friends.

Medina Municipal Leadership.

Chief Ed and Council Member Liz share municipal musings at going away party for Medina City planning whiz, Chad Adams.

Shad's in, Roe, too.

Cove Fish Market in Stonington advertises yummy Thames River Shad + Roe ... a once in a season frsh-water delicacy that afficianados swear adds years to their lives.

Another Choate Reunion Pic.

Columbia Corn Crib.

Two Old Germans.

Colorado artist and illustrator James Terman is at it again. Just received this original of a brace of '63 VW Bugs -- "Two Old Germans" -- and wanted to share it with readers of Poppy's Velo Ventures. Great art work, excellent sense of humor, and another priceless painting added to my collection.

Independence, MN Pioneer Museum.

Little museum on the prairie one-roomer holds the to the history of western fringes of what is now Minneapolis. Closed for repairs today, so I'll have to go back later and report in detail.

Ugly New Keen's.

Poppina hasn't made me take these boss new kicks back to the shoe store -- yet!

Fantastic Funky Fungus.

Tree-borne shroom takes over maple tree in Baker Park.

Biker and 175 cc go like hell.

Brother Joe back from Tulum and hang time with Jose, whose ISLO 175 cc two-stroke is in daily use. The bike is old, so is Jose. And both still go like hell.

Postmaster Oath of Service

Long Lake Postmaster Schierschmidt took the same oath of service that the President of the United States takes when he assumes office. Something very comforting and reassuring about the seriousness of all that.

Stand Up for Education!!

Protest posters plastered on lamp poles in St. Paul prompt citizens to fight to keep good schools open and available to all.

Myers Milk Dairy.

Like this shot. The shadows could have been a little darker, and more jarring. But I'll take it.

Shanghai Shopping Spree.

Talk about getting all your loot home from the Mall! Think about the tiny carbon footprint this pedaler leaves as he moans and groans his load down the road.

NM Natural History Museum.

Dinosaurs as you've never seen them before. Now displayed at the NM Natural History Museum in Albuquerque. A successful local orthodontist may well have spotted a promo opportunity, and funded this toothy exhibit!

Dunkin' Donut Days.

Rode the Surly LHT east out of town yesterday, in pursuit of an iced coffee at DD. You get a medium, with a Turbo shot, a little whole milk, and a pack of sweetner, all for $3.39. Excellent coffee and an excellent deal. They won't let you leave a tip at the window, so I kicked in my change to the "Friends of Wickenburg Library" can next to the register.

Remuda Ranch This a'way.

Premier eating disorder treatment facility Remuda Ranhc has been serving clients from all over the world in Wickenburg. It works if you work it!

AZ State Tree + Flower.

Paddy's Day Nails.

Desert Garden on the Cusp.

La Nancita built this terrific garden wall off the side of the house. Several trips to the local nursery yielded potted plant, cacti, desert flowers, etc. Just about ready to plant!

Wild Storm Light toward Phoenix.

Big storm blowing through this afternoon from California, resulted in awesome bright, white light over the Bradshaw Mtns. in direction of Phoenix, about 70 miles from where this picture was taken.

Antique Cameras for Sale.

Antique "Graflex" and ancient bellows 5 x 7 portrait cameras can be yours in Wickenburg for about $150.00 each. Pretty tempting, but a collector would know true value, utility.

Roadside Descanso Tribute.

Arizona highways still permit familes of deseased motorists to erect tribute "descansos" to their lost loved ones.

Vietnamese Sea Bass.

The butcher at Safeway called it "Suwai" -- Vietnamese sea bass. Price was right, the promise of a new food item discovery was strong, so I took home a lb. of filets, sauteed the fish in olive oil, lemon juice, and a little ground pepper. Onto a piece of foil went the Suwai, cooking for 3-4 mins. per side, and out came ....... well, a so-so fish eating experience. I'm not much of a chef, I confess, but this fish was not as flaky, succulent, tasty and light as I'd been led to believe. As I said, however, price was right, however ...

Henry Ford's First Car.

1896 full-scale replica of the first car that H. Ford ever made. Wickenburg owner smiles with pride as he and the missus ease out on the clutch of this baby for the first trip it has ever taken.

Wickenburgers Love Parades.

Costumed kids pose for Poppy's G-10 while they await their turn to march in the 63rd annual Gold Rush Days Parade in Wickenburg, AZ.

JI's hand-made Kicks.

J. Ingham "prouds" the Peal Bros. knock-offs he had made in China and which, he reports, are far and away the finest shoes he's ever owned. Still no socks, but some mighty boss kicks.

Poppy Poses in sol y sombra.

Chris and Jess gave me a fancy new tripod for Christmas. I took it out today for some digi foto work in the Sonoran Desert southwest of Wickenburg. Saw this senior citizen on the shouder of Vulture Mine Road. He declined a lift back to town.

Great Wall of Wickenburg.

Poppina's building a garden wall. Friends Dave and Bill are doing the heavy lifting -- plus digging footings and schlepping cement. By the time the work is done, we'll have enclosed garden space where cacti and desert fauna can flourish, free from menacing javelina and hungry bunnies. Good work, men!

Gene Autry Brand Bike.

Check this baby out: Gene Autry signature bike, ca. 1955, manf'd. by Monark, and tricked out with fringed saddle bag and holster for blazing six-gun. Carolyn + James Terman saw the bike on display at an exhibit of velocipedes in Colorado, at Longmont Museum of Transportation and Culture. Now, how much would we like to pedal one of these!?

Party Central.

Pina whipped up some great chow this evening, made sure the bar was stocked, invited our neighbors from the Villas, and we welcomed the holiday season in with great merriment. Ruth, Kathryn, Alan and La Nancita pose for Santa's camera. Merry Christmas to all!

Intelligentsia Baristas.

You'll find Intelligentsia Coffee House along Abbot Kinney Avenue in Venice, CA. Inside the shop you'll discover great coffee, an eclectic design, and two very attentive baristas mixing up the elixir. Check it out for yourselves.

He's a Flxible Man.

My new BFF John drives a 1948 5-window Flxible motor coach that he bought in 2001 from the City of Tocoma, where it had been in rust-free service since it rolled off the assembly like in Ohio more than 60 years ago.

City Hall, Dewey, OK.

I've been working to contact Kevin Trease, Manager of the City of Dewey, OK, to introduce myself, and present the magazine I'm selling for, Wild West, and see if Mr. Trease has some $$ in the budget for next summer's Dewey western celebration. On our way to the Tom Mix Museum, also in Dewey, Nancy snapped this shot of your intrepid space rep outside city hall, maybe waiting for City Manager Trease to please let me in?

And stockings hung in the rental with care ....

Followers

Tribute to Christmas.

Just east of the Town Library is the Wickenburg community monument. Decorated for Christmas, with Old Glory flying proud, I caught a cyclist's hybrid machine at parade rest while taking in the holiday scene.

Minnesota Fast Food.

Hey, get ya' walleye chunks, super fresh, super tasty. Don't forget the deep fried pickles and, who knows what other treats? Pina and I stopped at this kiosk in Stillwater, MN after the Annual Fall Hook-In, and chowed on some of the most delicious fast food, ever. Yumm

Jonesy gets his 'Cuda.

Choate 1961 classmate, Forrest Jones, aboard his catamaran off Ambergris Caye, Belize. Jonesy hooked this massive Wahoo, which looks like a prize winner to me. Before Jones became a skilled angler and skipper, he and I would head to Ardsley Park, NY from school, hang with his lovely parents, try to meet some babes, and maybe drink a little Rheingold beer. Ah, those were the days, right, Forrest?

Buttsie the Biker.

Jason tools around San Fran last spring on his Jamis Aurora. Not more than a week after this shot was taken, sorry to say, the bike was swiped while it was cable-locked to a lamp post in the Haight. Bummer.

Grandma B + Larry Come for Brunch.

Nancy drove to Richfield to pick up Larry and Grandma B today for a blueberry pancake feed back in Long Lake. We had such a good time hosting these two nonagenarians. They are so lively, fun, interesting and gracious -- lucky Sam and me to be in their company for lunch!

New Salsa Brake Levers.

My Surly needed the extra safety and convenience of the added brake levers on the flat part of the handle bars. So I went back to Tonka Cycle and got Steve, Jason, Nick, Beth and the others to install the Salsas, pictured below. They really do make a difference. So does the new chain I asked the folks at Tonka to replace after a thousand miles or so of riding this summer. Sweet.

Cousins in Caps.

Hugo and big cousin Ollie style their Carhart ski caps in the backyard on Thanksgiving afternoon. Couldn't have been too chilly on the East Coast -- check out the bare arms. Meanwhile in MN it was in the single digits and bare arms were nowhere to be seen.

The Uhry's Do England.

My publishing colleague and pal Peter Uhry and his adorable wife Syd slipped off to England recently to check the real estate scene. Here sits the couple from Old Greenwich, pondering whether to make a bid on the 19th century manor house behind them. Stay tuned for more news.

Bicycling for Peace, West Village.

Jessie tells me that this same bike is decorated weekly in support of an ever-changing social/political cause. Bike is parked in front of a coffee shop in the West Village, though i didn't see anyone mount up and take to the streets.

Please, Santa, bring me this purse!

Boat and Trailer Rig deLuxe

Old salt J. Ingham trailered this behemoth outboard last month from Watch Hill, RI to Key West, FL. To make the point that the rig -- Volvo wagon, boat, and custom trailer -- was ginormous, JI snapped an iPhone foto in a strip mall in Virginia with a cross country bus in the background as point of reference. Happy to report that driver, car, trailer, boat and motor arrived safe and sound at Land's End Marina, not far from where Ernest Hemingway set out in a skiff to write "The Old Man and the Sea."

Not your mother's A + P!

The light was just right, the colors perfect. The vibe and karma of this cheery bodega in the West Village cried out for a passerby to stop, aim his digital, and squeeze off a shot. Wish I'd had a tripod, but I think the pic came out OK. This doesn't look like any A + P I've ever patronized!

Presidential Timber

Back in NYC at 300 W. 57th Street, new Hearst Magazines president David Carey shares fond memories with me of our service together at Cosmopolitan magazine. David holds Tiffany silver bowl -- Roy B. Lucy award -- presented to young Mr. Carey a decade ago for his singular and stellar contributions to the magazine and its mission.

Big Boy, Baby Shower.

About-to-be-first-time Dad, Chris F. poses with a Paddy baby bunting bag which will come in might handy this winter in NYC.

Maker's Mark Hooked Rug.

Brother Bill Samuels celebrated his 70th birthday recently, and sister Nancy "Sam" Hoyt and I were along for the merry-making. Bill's "big" present was this exquisite wool rug, designed and hand-hooked by Nancy. Hours and hours of love-work went into Sam's interpretation of Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto, KY.

Bourbon Gala Gal + Guy.

Nancy and I pose for a pic by Lee Willis Evans on the grand staircase of her lovely home in Bardstown, Kentucky. We're all dressed up, headed for the Bourbon Festival Ball + Gala last Saturday night. We look almost like Senior Prommers. wouldn't you say?

Bardstown Boys + Girls Club.

Poppina's nieces and nephews now have nieces and nephews of their own! Here in Prospect, KY, at the home of Bill and Nancy Samuels, their grandkids pose with ice-cream bars while the adults stay inside and munch on some exquisite chocolate chip cookies. Inside, outside, cookies or ice-cream bars, all of us had the best time imaginable.

Lisa, Pina + Siri.

Two Pony Gardens is hosting its annual Dynamite Dahlia Day sale up Deer Hill Road at Lisa Ringer's lovely home in Long Lake. Siri Knutson is cooking organic dough pizzas in the wood-fired over, Nancy "Sam" Hoyt is working on an exquisite floral display, and Lisa is supervising the whole deal, plus splitting wood, shooing cats out of the kitchen, and keeping an eye on the cash register. My three fave gals today take a moment out to pose for a beauty shot.

Bennis: Paperback Writer

Old pal, ad sales colleague, bike riding companion, bi-lingual whiz, and now award-winning published author, Mike Bennis, has written a scorcher! Titled "Rules of Engagement," this steamy fantasy seems to reveal more about Mike's exciting life than I ever knew! Check it out: you will not be disappointed. Mazel tov, Mike, and as you always say: un abrazo muy fuerte!

Pete Wither.

Ask anyone around Routt County if they know Pete Wither, and the answer is always the same: hell, yes! Pete is a 3rd generation northwestern Coloradan, successful realtor, accomplished skier, hubby, dad and granddad. Pina and I get together with Pete and his bride Barbi, plus other Steamboat pals, for dinner, yucks, good memories and lots of foto ops every time we get to town.

Me and Pina at Gelato Goint.

Betsy Chase snapped a pic of Mr. + Mrs. Hoyt hanging out on Yampa Street at the Gelato emporium. Date was 8/26 and we were all just about ready to head up to Alta, WY in Grand Targhee National Forest for the wedding of Betsy's daughter Lindsay Melton to her long-time beau Dr. Luc Hibbs.

Space Station Pumps Gas Again.

Iconic gas-eria on Lincoln Avenue in Steamboat, was closed down and under construction for what seemed like years. Nancy and I stopped by last week to fill 'er up with 87, and I snapped a pic, just for the blog. Check out the deep purple-blue of the sky. Some Rocky Mountain palette, huh?

Kronan Cycle - New to me.

Saw this baby parked down at Sweet Pea's on Yampa St. in Steamboat. Looks like a very cool European city bike, complete with license plate, etc. I think it's a 3-speed internal hub jobbie. Anyone familiar with the brand?

Cowgal of the Yampa!

Great friend Pat Carney poses in perfect cowgal hat for inquiring fotographer. Venue was Grand Targhee resort, and occasion was bridal dinner BBQ on 8/27, the night before Lindsay and Luc tied the knot.

Steamboat Dining at Haymaker.

We hadn't been back in Steamboat more than 48 hours! And here we are together again for the annual dinner with a bunch of old pals. The venue? Outdoor dining at Staxx at the Haymaker Golf Course. The menu? Table piled high with scrumptious fries, onion rings, burgers, salads, grilled chicken, and, at insistence of John Sant'Ambrogio, double-orders of brownies and vanilla ice creamed, drizzled with plenty of chocolate syrup. Guests? From l-r: Sammy, Betsy, John, Pat, Cynthia, your truly, Smokey. Great times were had by all.

Pedaling to Pat's Pool.

New Belgium Fat Tire-branded two-wheeler sits outside Steamboat Springs ("Pat's Pool," as in Carney) Pool while owner/pedalist most likely soaks in legendary sulphur springs in heart-shaped pool. I, for my $75, plus tip, had an hour on Lucille's table: about the best massage I can remember. Don't get kneeded and worked over too often, though make it a primo destination when Sambo and I come back to SS, CO.

Red Hoyt's Boys.

My "cousin" Tony Hoyt and his brothers, Charlie and Bill, at Bill's birthday just last week. Many happy returns!

Damascus Water Works.

Old Greenwich buddy Pete Uhry and wife Syd sent this pic from their recent trip to Syria. The water wheel, says Pete, has been delivering potable water to Damascus for nearly 2,000 years. Pretty remarkable, I think

Heirlooms: Pina + 'Bela, Tomatoes.

Isabela and Nancita return from the veggie garden with massive numbers of heirloom toms -- luscious, juicy, unlike anything you've ever had from the market. Taste defies description - you'll just have to come and see (bite) for yourself!

Serious Sweet Corn Days!

Ready for Success!

Gary V. runs a vital and successful men's program in the 'Cities called "Ready for Success." I volunteer some of my time, as do my two buddies Lafayette and Ben. Snapped this shot during a break this afternoon from setting up work and interview apparel which 24 clients will try on as they go forward with successful career moves of their own.

Great-niece Lulu w/dad!

Out Seattle way new parent Travis Parent fits Sweet Lu in a cool bike seat for a ride through the San Juans. Better put a helmet on my Great-niece!

Stone Arch Bridge, Mpls., MN.

Catchy little Brand Message?

Love this sign on Univ Ave. in St. Paul. Only brand I know that celebrates pissing off the competition!

Dick Hull wrote this very endearing Limerick about Choate 50th.

If a reunion co-chair named Hoyt --

Whose blogging layouts are adroit --

Could go just as far

In designing a car,

They could use him right now in Detroit.

Limerick from Dick Hull, rhymin' king!

Two Long Lake lovers named Hoyt

Hit the road for a trip to Detroit.

But suddenly, Nancy

Said “Seth, don’t get antsy,

But that sign says ‘Nearing Beloit.’”!!

Big-Ass Hail Stone in SD!

Swiped this one off a newssite. Largest hail stone ever measured, recorded, captured in US. Happened in June in SD. Weighs nearly 2-lbs. Imagine what that would feel like if it fell from the sky and banged you on the noggin?

Coggie and Lulu.

My dear Sis Crary and her adorable granddaughter Lucia ("Sweet Lu".)

Paige Pagnucco Weed and her extended family showed up at Pina's Pool the other afternoon for a splash party and brat-b-q. Cousins Liam Weed from Logan, UT and Toby Weed from Putney, VT mixed it up as they dove for the Golden Gherkin, which had been tossed to the bottom of the pool to see who could retrieve it first. The boys ended up in a tie and shared the delicious pickle in equal bites!

Westport Summer, 2010.

Ali took a pic of Duncan and Oliver at Compo beach in Westport. I saw it on the mom's album on FB, and downloaded the foto of my little guys so you could see them here on PoppysVelo, too.

Paige for Progress!

If you're in Utah come election day be sure to vote for Paige Pagnucco for State Representative. Good for you, girl: you'd be a great asset in the House!

Happy B'day, Mike!

"Dunn Bros. Mike," owner of the shop in Lowe's center off Vicksburg, was feted on his big day by loyal and adoring employees Abby and Dawn. It was fun for me to happen on the celebration and lift a glass of Cold Press in toast to my youngster buddy.

Humongo Storms Skip Medina.

Pina and I sat on the couch for what seemed like hours last night watching superb local weatherman, Dave Dahl, and his sidekick Chicagi (sp?) track bad-ass storms blowing across Minnesota. We got some rain, plenty of wind, and thunder-boomers, but that's about it here. Reports of tornado touch-downs were frequent, but we skated by again. Oppressive heat and humidity are in Wisconsin now, or Illinois, and it's looking like we'll have a perfect mid-Summer's day!

Da' Boyz

Old Poppy has some of the most special grandsons in the whole wide world. Check the little dudes as they take a breather from Razor Scooter action a couple of weeks ago. before you know it, they'll be on two-wheelers, writing blogs of their own!

Mpls. Rent-a-Bike

"Nice Ride" bikes in their racks in Uptown, off Lake Street, and in front of Lund's. Really great rides, and I'm going to rent one next time I'm in the 'hood.

Corn Cob Cuties.

Long story. Pina and I stopped for gas in Lincoln, NE last spring. Turns out there was a 'Husker scrimmage going on and little corn husker fans were everywhere. It was a little dicey persuading the father of these three kids that old Poppy was on the up and up, but he let La Nancita take shot of all of the corn cuties posed together. Love this shot and love you, Huskers!

Java of the Patriots.

Banding Osprey in Medina.

Our friend Liz is the Three Rivers Park observer of an osprey nest on an area farm. There's a nest with a pair of ospreys, a leg-banded male and an un-banded female, who nested in the same spot last year. "My job," explains Liz, "is to record the date that the pair lays their eggs. Of course we get really excited when the eggs hatch! " When the hen osprey starts brooding her eggs, the male bird brings fish to his mate, often one from Lake Woslfeld that he has half eaten. "When the young hatch, " remembers Liz, "the hen sits notably higher in the nest. Last year the hen laid three eggs, but only one hatched -- the osprey that Liz holds here for leg banding. "The other two eggs, we speculate, became too cold when the adult birds left the nest to harass horse back riders along lake trails during the cold weeks of May." Judy Voight Eglund of Three Rivers publishes research on ospreys that she derives from monitoring some 53 nests in the metro area. When the osprey reintroduction project started not long ago, there were no ospreys left in the midwestern flyway. They had long been shot out.

Ingham, behind the wheel, and Schenck and I having a fab time hanging out in JI's '36 Ford Phaeton. We're in the driveway at Jonathan's place in Watch Hill, RI, having just come in from a sea cruise down the Westerly River and out to Latimer's Lighthouse in Long Island Sound. Some day, some car, some pals, huh? I'm a lucky guy.

Mrs. Fondulas + Mrs. Boyle.

Bergin + David came to NYC to visit and show off Baby Emmett. Jess hosted a "sip + see" and Chris captured these two dear pals looking very bride-like, indeed!

Roman Holiday.

Stanley and Susie (Dinghy and Doozle) are pictured here on a second honeymoon in Firenze! Actually, they're in Italy visiting kids and grandkids, but that's cloe enough to a honeymoon as those of us who live too far from our offspring understand! Besides, love always springs eternal in the Eternal City, and my dear pals seem to be enjoying a glorious vacation. Thanks to Julia for the jpeg!

Old Pal David Carey Gets Big Job!

NEW YORK, June 28, 2010—Hearst Corporation, one of the nation’s largest diversified media companies, announced today that the longtime president of its worldwide magazine group, Cathleen P. Black, has been promoted to chairman of Hearst Magazines, and veteran publishing executive David Carey succeeds Black as president. The changes, effective immediately, were announced by Frank A. Bennack, Jr., vice chairman and CEO of the parent company, Hearst Corporation.

Triba's Barber Shop.

Mr. Triba gave me a very high and tight trim yesterday. I like this guy a lot: Vietnamese refugee, about my age, devout Catholic, grandfather to lots of kids, and cutting hair in the same location in Minnetonka for the past dozen years. Triba laughs and giggles a lot, and his English is good. So we have a nice time together and I sure get my money's worth!

Why Road Trips Are Special.

What makes a solo road trip, like the one I took from Minnie back East to see family and friends, so special? Had some thoughts this morning, and just wrote them in my journal.

First, it's an adventure. I am responsibility- and duty-free. Just me, the road, my KIA, the elements. This sounds so trite and corny, but it's true. My job is to check the oil and have a balance in my check book. I'm solo, in my car-world, self-contained, everything in its place.

There are plenty of Starbucks along the I-80 route. Never without iced lattes and Outrageous Oatmeal Raisin cookies. Cruise control? Set it on 75, look straight ahead, focus on the road, day dream a little bit, maybe shove in a book on tape, let my mind wander when and where it wants to.

And awaiting me? Ali, Sky, Jessie and their wonderful families whom I never seem to see enough of. And old college pals Jim, JI, J. Schenck, and their wives.

Then when it's time to leave them all and make the return trip, there's Poppina in the doorway in Long Lake, happy to have me back home.

Dad's Day Dinner.

Jess + Chris treat me to a gluten-free pizza dinner at a hip and happening joint in New York's West Village. Nice touch. Great food. Loads of fun. Lots of fun. Lucky me.

NYC = Bikes Galore.

Saw all sorts of pedi-cabs and other people-powered means of transportation when I was in Manhattan last week. This story has been reported far and wide, but now that I've glimpsed a bit of the action firsthand, I predict even more velo ventures along the Verranzano.

Horseshoe Crab?

After we took the boys to Longshore pool to swim, we visited a cove along Compo Beach. Rumor had it that horseshoe crabs were all over the place. Wonder if the guys saw any? It was low tide, so I think there might have been a crustacean sighting or two!

Backhoe Boys.

Hugo and Charlie at the controls of a big diesel backhoe at their CT home. Stonemason Bill is building a patio and left the heavy equipment in the yard with explicit instructions for the boys NOT to mess around with it! Should we tell Bill?

Choate Boys!

Bill Heyn, C' 60 and Ash Edwards, C'59, show off the powerful Choate football squad from some 50 years ago. Ash and Bill and I (C '61) had a mini-high school reunion, and a great pizza lunch, last week in Stratford, CT.

Lisa's Tipi.

I won the Texarkana TT overall yesterday, check out the chart from my Garmin, 8.08 miles, 18:39, avg 26 mph, avg HR 172 max 182!!!! I have 20 days left heading into state competetion, I am feeling pretty good about my form.

Boys with Weird Hats.

Jim Butler, whose mug you've seen on this blog, poses with me on a visit I made to the Butler manse in CT. Not sure where Margot found the hats, but they do look good on us, don't you think?

El Secreto de Sus Ojos.

Great flick, amigos! Go see it ASAP. Pina, J-Bone and I caught the 5:30 show in Edina this afternoon. One review calls "Secreto" seamless, near-perfect cine-blend of love story, comedy, murder mystery, farce, political cautionary tale, etc. In Argentine Spanish (great lyrical lines and sing-song delivery) with English sub titles. Go see it -- vamanos!

Jackie Gets His Fisher On.

Check Jackie Brian's new mountain bike: primo Gary Fisher brand. "Happy for you to post the picture," wrote Jackie, "and say I plan to race it later this year. The ride is sweet, but my wife Debra says it's much too pretty to get dirty!"

Happy B'day Cupcake.

Carolyn and James Terman can be counted on to commemorate special occasions! And Poppy's b'day is no exception. Look above at what James painted and sent today: birthday cupcake with a single bold candle to remind one and all that age is in the eye of the beholder. Many happy returns!

Coxie and the Cap'n.

Ex-Utne pal Craig Cox and I joined up for lunch this week at "Vina" Vietnamese restaurant in St. Paul. The eatery is across the street for Coxie's office at Enjoy Life magazine, and we got in 90 minutes of serious yap about work, life, love, friends, family, kids, politics, etc.

Gardening Garb: Golly!

For my b'day last week, Ali sent me a handsome blue t-shirt from Doc's Cafe in Westport, CT. On it went, and into the garden it, the shovel and I dove, in support of Pina's planting plans. Holes were dug, roses planted, compost turned, and sweat produced. The shirt held up just fine, in case you're curious.

'Cities Salon Surprise.

Chris shows off a very fine $19.00 hair cut he treated himself to while visiting us here in the 'Cities last week!

C, J + Poppy at MSP.

Jess and Chris arrived in Minneapolis from LGA on May 14th to spend a few days with Pina and me in Long Lake. What fun we had!

Rezzie at the Plate.

No greater Twins fan has ever swung a bat than dear Linda Reznick. Check her out in action below. Rezzie and I worked together for five fun-filled (and sometimes frantic) years at NAMG. I've retired from the batter's box; Rezzie's still knockin' 'em out of the park!

Lisa's Raising Chickens this Spring.

We paid a call on Lisa the other day to check out the baby chicks she's nurturing in her home. Great chance for Poppy to snap a foto through the front window!

Bike Basket Bloomin'.

My fave shop (Tonka Cycle + Ski) dresses up its front door each season with something new and blooming in baskets attached to clunky, funky old bikes. Nice touch, I think. And glad to have spring back here in Minneapolis!

Unca Joe on the BBC.

Brother Joe Hoyt is in England with Nancy for a vaca as well as cultural event at Coventry Cathedral. Joe was invited to exhibit his fotos of Afghanistan, discuss his book, and take Q + A from attendees about "Afghanistan in an Era of Peace: 1970-1975." After the talk, joe was interviewed by the BBC and his "8 minutes of English fame" were broadcast on BBC radio tis afternoon. Wow!

Imagine no more plastic bottles.

A recycler in China pulls a handcart stacked with unimaginable quantities of used-up plastic bottles. They're likely headed to the plastic foundry to be turned into more plastic bottles.

Girlfriends do South Beach.

Ali and her college pals Kim and Diane had loads of fun on a recent gals-only trip to Miami Beach. I'm thinkin' the ladies look very lovely, indeed!

Little Colorado River

Dry for most of the year, the Little Colorado bursts with water-ness come the Spring melt. Friends took this rare foto near Flagstaff in northern AZ. Little CO is some 60 yards across and running at 10-12 mph. By now I suspect it's dry again.

HANSON TREE GUYS, AT YOU SERVICE!

Pina hired Hanson Tree Service and the guys (Mike H. calls them "monkeys" after the way these five scamper up and down the oaks, and all over and around the maples and the pines) to get our place in shape for Spring. The boys arrived on Friday the 23rd, and worked like ... well, monkeys ... cutting, pruning, trimming, and felling our hardwood.

Old Washington Ave., Mpls.

Barely three blocks from shiny new skyscrapers in downtown Minneapolis, you can still find hundred year old storefronts in their unrestored glory. Little by little these elegant, imposing old facades are spruced up and gentrified as our Twin Cities metro grows and gets discovered by the next cadre of entrepreneurs.

The Surly's Here!

I took delivery of my Long Haul Trucker today. Tonka Cycle + Ski in Minnetonka called at 3:00 to tell me the bike was good to go, so off I went. Steve posed with me and the bike while Jason took a foto for the blog. Nick held up a Tonka T-shirt so no one would forget where the Surly came from, and what a great velo experience it's been working with Tonka.

Help is on its way!

The guy who drives this car has the answer for just about everything that ails you. When I first read his back window I thought he was asking if I were Hassidic, not acidic. Wonder what's up with the Kangen Water?

Go See "The Last Station."

Russian author Leo Tolstoy: I wish I'd paid more attention to him. What an influential humanist, writer, social observer, prodigious lover. Here's a foto of the genius when he was about 80, long after "War + Peace" had become a worldwide phenomenon, and two years before Tolstoy's death in 1910. The Bolshevik Revolution followed scarcely 7 years later. Go see "The Last Station" with Christopher Plummer and Helen Miren for an exquisite portrait of the man, the times, the conflict. It's a great love story.

The Cops Are All Business Here.

They don't cut you any slack in Wayzata. That's as it should be. No riding on sidewalks, or against traffic, and you definitely have to stop at stop signs. I am not about to test the resolve of the constabulary.

Fondulas Foto: Fantastico!

Son-in-law Chris Fondulas just keeps getting better as a fotographer! This image was submitted to the Smithsonian Institution and Chris reports with great pride that the SI picked his foto for publication on their site. Bravo, Chris.

Way to Roll!

Bikes get total respect in Arches National Park in Moab, UT. I'm thinking that 3 feet between car and velo ought to be a national standard on every roadway.

Wars Keep Killing us.

From today's (4/2) New York Times:

More than 4,000 Americans have died in Iraq and more than 1,000 in Afghanistan, where the Obama administration has chosen to escalate rather than to begin a careful withdrawal. Those two wars, as the Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz and his colleague Linda Bilmes have told us, will ultimately cost us more than $3 trillion.

Pierce and the Philly Shaws.

Jack, Kimberly and Suzanne Shaw came with our fave neighbor to visit with Pina and me today. Kimberly is married to Pierce and Ben's son, Justin, and is a market researcher for J + J. The Shaws live in the Philadelphia vicinity, but sure do look right at home in the Hoyt's front yard!

Coupla' Cowboy Crooners.

Monte Vista Ranch in Wickenburg was the venue for a fab party last Friday night. Great food and drink, fun people, and even a mounted cowboy crooner who sang "Red River Valley," and let Poppy hold the reins of his steed.

Ever see Seattle like this?

Brother-in-law Mark Gaggia trains his camera, and very talented eye, across the water toward Seattle, the city he loves. Nice lens work, my Brother!

Ethiopia Bike Shop.

James Terman reports seeing only one bike shop in all of Addis-Ababa, a city of 4.5 million souls. "No bikes or scooters are used for transportation. It's all about cabs and buses."

Lots of Crary Legacy!

Another Roadside Descanso.

I've come to learn that highway monuments to loved ones killed on AZ roads are called descansos -- resting places. Here's a very special one I saw along Route 89 near Congress. I'm eager to learn more about the man who was killed, how it happened, and his family who clearly misses him.

Rare Kingfisher Seen in Wickenburg.

Our local paper The Sun reports today that the rare Green Kingfisher was spotted in the Hassayampa River Preserve just East of town. Green Kingfishers are found in So. Texas, Mexico, and parts of AZ. The bird had never been spotted in Maricopa County until now. Photo by "extreme birder," Greg Smith, brother of Pierce Shaw of Wickenburg.

A Man Outstanding in His Field.

Brother-in-law Mark Gaggia is a phenom fotog, and he's been at it since he had a full head of hair. Mark sent me this pic of himself at work with a large format camera. Check the suspenders!

Double Decker Bike parking.

Christian e-mailed this inspirational bike parking shot from Utrecht. Goes to show you how Dutch continue to set their transportation priorities (bikes not cars) despite their affluence, sophistication and education. Can't we imagine a lot like this in Manhattan, San Fran, or Chicago? What about out in front of the new Hennepin County Library in downtown Minneapolis?

Jolly Good English Wedding.

Our dear friend Liz flew across the pond to join her family for the wedding of their favorite niece. What a lovely clan! We hear they got down pretty good once a glass or two of bubbly had been poured! Here's to a happy life together for the bride + groom.

Crazy Utrecht Bike Parking Lot.

Nephew Christian Gaggia took this shot of the parking lot at a big mall in his "adopted" country of Holland. Everyone rides bikes there. It's even unusual to see cars at the malls in Utrecht.

Poppina's Porch.

Sun shone bright and warm today on our little porch.

New Gas Grill.

Jason helps me put finishing touches on new Char-Broil grill.

Hoyt Boys, Hawaii Version.

Publishing legend Tony Hoyt and son Bobby, over Christmas in Hawaii. Tony and I worked together at Hearst Magazines. Bobby was an ad sales intern at Cosmo one summer, now owns and operates a very successful wine + spirits shop in Hawaii. Tony (like his "cousin" Seth) is retired and hanging out with his kids!

Whiteout on Willow.

Orono pal Jim Hillegass sent me this from his cellphone camera today. Do I need to tell my dear readers that it was 65-degrees today in Phoenix? And that the sky was blue and the clouds fresh and new and puffy white?

Cowboy Vanity Plates.

Yee, haa! And Yippee kay aae. How 'bout this license plate. Get it?

Cycling to Recycle.

Panniers were stuffed with empty croissant boxes, milk cartons, #10 envelopes and a copy or two of The Nation. Semi truck trailer in background holds a week's worth of recycle up at Sickles Sanitation.

Cash for Clunkers.

Sitting in a vacant lot in Tubac, AZ, is a very classy Dodge half-ton pick-up. Not too much rust on this old baby, as AZ has scant moisture, and the paint is aging gracefully. Wonder why the owner didn't trade the classic in on a new Ram?

Playdate!

Our friend Pierce and her delightful granddaughter Lucy came over to our house yesterday to hang out with Nancy and me. We loved the attention from this sparkling, funny, loving and engaging 2-year old. Lucky us. Thank you, Pierce.

San Jose de Tumacacori.

Spanish Jesuits start the Mission in 1690 to serve Pima Indians in what is now southeastern Arizona. Franciscans replace Jesuits, Mexico gains independence from Spain, Apache attacks and war with Mexico drive last residents from Tubac, and Tumacacori National Monument is created by U.S. Congress in 1908.

Awesome Casa Grande.

700 years later this sturdy "caliche" structure still stands against the elements of the Sonoran Desert. National Parks Service ranger gives guided tour, despite howling wind, to intrepid history seekers.

Pop Over Perfection.

Terrell whipped up these babies from scratch when Pina and I were in Santa Monica. Yummm!!

Global Warming. Want proof?

Someone sent this indisputable proof of global warming. If temps were as cold now as three hundred years ago, we'd still be wearing bloomers rather than thongs.

Santa does Delhi with J + C.

Honeymooners Chris + Jess met up with an Indian Santa Claus in Delhi and, oh boy, did those kids have fun! Reindeer were harnessed up, sleighs polished and tricked out for the ride, chimneys spotted for delivery of prezzies to good little Indian boys and girls, and some toasts were made to friendship, love, family, and good fortune for all Indians and Americans in the New Year.

Pina and Progeny.

Nancy (Sam, Pina, whatever) and I spent New Year's in San Fran with Marcela and Isabela. Along the way we had time to celebrate with Will, Terrell and Jason. Foto above is of a proud Mom (Pina) snuggling close with her kiddies -- Terrell and Jason -- now all grown up, to be sure!

Safe Site for Child Surrender.

San Fran's Richmond District offers discrete, safe drop-off place for moms with unwanted kids. Location? 26th Ave. near Balboa. Instructions in English, Chinese and Spanish. Wonder how many kids are given up each year, and how tough the decision to forfeit must be for the mom.

Groomin' San Fran Beach.

Massive bulldozer grades tons of sand and grooms San Fran beach along Great Highway. Still too cold for sunbathing, but the beach sure is smooth!

Cochin, India Cricket Club.

Ridin' Out Wickenburg Way.

Snapped this one at an Historical Marker about two miles west of Wickenburg. The monument commemorates a pitched battle between Indigenous warriors and the Wells-Fargo stage, somewhere around 1868. Jamis Aurora gives you some sense of scale. I'm the shadowy guy with the sun at his back.

Caribou Baristas Thumbs-up the Season!

My regular baristas at Caribou in Wayzata Lund's, whose names, of course, I never asked (!), pose with their silly caribou headgear while flashing big Christmas smiles, and giving thumbs-up to the mega-tip old Poppy left in the jar!

Jason Got This at '21'.

Sam and I took Jason to dinner at '21' Club some 19 years ago tonight! Bruce Synder, maitre d' extraordinaire, greeted us warmly, and autographed this baseball for 10-year Master Butts. Jason found the ball this evening, snapped a foto, and sent it my way so I could post it here. Cool memory.

"Two Knees, No Waiting."

Sam and I sit on Santa Joe's lap today (12/5) at International Market in Minneapolis. We told Santa Joe we'd been good boys and girls, and were pretty much carbon-neutral. That was cool with Santa, and I think we'll score some decent loot come 12/25.

Pancakes you can believe in!

Chicken sausages cook up on Lisa's stove next to world-class sourdough flapjacks. Read all about this yummy breakfast in the post to you left.

Great Looking H.S. Classmates!

Kip, Bill, Rick and John were classmates of mine at Choate School. 125 of us graduated in 1961, and we're at work on our 50th Reunion (!) for 2011. We're going to have loads of fun. Stand by for more pics and posts.

Cash for Clunkers.

Carolyn and James Terman kick the tires of an old Willys near their home in Boulder, CO. They send happy holiday greetings, as do I.

Honda 50 - Hold on Tight!

Remember the iconic Honda 50? Maybe 13,000,000 sold worldwide? Mom forked out $375 for this gem when she, Joe and Charlie lived in Coconut Grove, FL. I was away at college then, but posed with the other boys for a Christmas card of brotherly love in, what, 1964?

Accessorizing with Skulls.

Found this cow/horse skull in the weeds near the house today. It looks pretty stylin' on the handlebars of the Trek, wouldn't you say?

Burmese Taxi -- Hold on to your hat!

James Terman took this in Myanmar when he and Carolyn were there in 2008.

Toby the Dog.

Sky + Charlie just brought an adorable new puppy home from the pound. Though the AKC denied Toby his purebred papers, we don't care. This dear little guy is mighty fine with us! Can't wait to frolic with Toby W.

How 'Bout a Shine, Mister?

Terman inherited this tin of Simoniz (still half-full) from his dad. James says the old man made him shine up the family's '49 Plymouth Belvedere back in Bowling Green OH. And Junior admits he needed about a 50-gallon drum of elbow grease to get the job done to Mr. Terman Sr's. satisfaction.

Ironclad Bikes, Prescott, AZ, January 2009.

Possibly the coolest cycle shop sign in the American southwest. Maybe someday they'll lose the coaster brake one-speed and replace it with something Lance might have ridden in the Tour de France.

Mark and Emily.

A very proud Papa Mark Gaggia hugs his adorable daughter Emily, who's within minutes of giving birth to her first born. A wonderful cycle continues.

Coxie and the Cap'n.

Craig Cox, managing editor of award-winning Lifetime Fitness monthly, and his old publishing buddy from Utne Reader days, celebrate Vets Day (Coxie was in USAF a little after Captain Hoyt), over a salmon sandwich -- yummy! -- at Highland Tavern on Cleveland Ave. in St. Paul, 11/13/09.

Party Like it's 1955.

Dad took this in Chillicothe with his Leica. Partygoers included my Mom ("Chita"), Uncle Joe, Dr. Nick Holmes, plus a couple of merry-makers we can't identify. Foto courtesy of brother Joe, who can't I.D. the other folks, either. Party on, Dudes.

Jim Jowett, Motor Mentor.

Jim and I worked at NAMG together, became better friends after we retired. He's got a Honda Goldwing 1000, and a license to operate it (!), and I'm getting coaching from Jim so I can pass my road test some day.

The Termans.

You've read a lot in this blog about James and Carolyn Terman. Here they are in front of their home in Boulder, CO. Carolyn shows off some serious heirloom tomatoes grown in the Hoyt's garden in Long Lake, MN.

JI's '36 Ford Phaeton.

Ingham flew out to Dayton to find this beaut. Wouldn't tell me what he'd paid for it, but Eyes did promise to let me take the wheel next time I came to visit him and Joy in Watch Hill.

County Library, St. Boni, MN

St. Bonifacius boasts the oldest same-building library in the entire Hennepin County system. Also the coolest building (former bank, converted to library in 1931). Stopped to check it out at end of my ride today (11/7/09) along superb regional bike trail. What a day, what a step back in time.

Fuzzy Wuzzy Preps for Winter.

Pina and I found this fuzzy two-tone caterpillar on our front step the other day. Not sure if its appearance means an early winter? A late winter? Mild or brutal? Anybody know the lore? Please let us hear from you.

Caribou Comps Me Cold Press.

Tanya was store manager at Caribou Coffee in Long Lake when I pedaled over this summer. I'm a regular customer so the counter staff comped me an icy cold java this trip as a reward for pedaling 12+ miles to pay a visit. Thank you, Caribou.

My wife the (rug) hooker.

Check out this special work of art! Nancy ("Sam") created this gorgeous hooked rug, from scratch, and over many months. It rests, in grand style, on the floor between the main entry to our house, and the door into the kitchen. I am so proud of my wife and the remarkable work she does. Wow.

Borland Pumpkin Pickers.

Deedee and Bruce Borland came from Lake Forest to see us in Long Lake recently. We dropped in at Scherer's punkin' patch, posed for a pic, and went home with pounds and pounds of special gourds.

Chris, Poppy, Jessie in Naragansset, RI, July 2008

Velo paradise: endless bike paths, low traffic volume, brackish wetlands galore, birds of all kind, and a deep appreciation for nature shared with family and friends.

Minnesota Gothic.

Ride your bike 4 miles west of our house and you'll enter an era in Minnesota family farming that could easily be from the 1930's.

Burma Still Shavin'.

Some amorous guy tries to squeeze his sweetie and runs off the road. Check full post for unique BurmaShave prose.

Buddy, where's Woodstock at?

Brother Joe, circa 1972, somewhere east of Knockemstiff and west of Amsterdam, on his way back from photographing Afghanistan. True story.